Choose the site
Climbers add foliage to a fence, wall or pergola while taking up little ground space. Use them for privacy, shade on a patio or interest around an entrance. Depending on the species, they provide blooms, nectar or shelter. They grow from the ground or a container and have different needs from irrigated modular living walls.
- South and west
- Watch for reflected heat, wind and drying.
- North
- Usually cooler and shadier. Check whether rain reaches the base of the wall.
- East
- Morning sun suits many plants that prefer partial shade.
Wall, trellis or pergola?
Aerial roots or adhesive pads
Virginia creeper, Boston ivy and climbing hydrangea can attach directly. They provide dense cover and are harder to remove. Avoid fragile siding, cracks and crumbling mortar. If in doubt, use a freestanding trellis.
Tendrils or leaf stalks
Grapes and some passionflowers wrap tendrils around wire or mesh. Clematis climbs by wrapping its leaf stalks around a support. Give it wire or rods thin enough to grip.
Twining stems
Honeysuckle, hops and wisteria wrap their stems around a support. Mature wisteria needs a securely anchored structure.
A support set away from the wall makes it easier to train stems, maintain airflow and reach the siding. Choose it for the plant’s mature weight, wind exposure and maintenance needs.
Climbers for flowers, foliage or fruit
For flowers
Choose a hardy clematis suited to your light. In partial shade, climbing hydrangea can suit moist, well-drained soil and needs a structure that can carry its mature weight.
For screening
Virginia creeper can cover a large area quickly where it has room.
For fruit
Choose a hardy grape cultivar and a sunny site.
Check the cultivar’s hardiness, mature size and pruning needs. Across most of Canada, common morning glories and annual sweet peas are grown for a single season. Many passionflowers also need winter protection.
Plant, water and train
- Check the wall and install the support before planting. Choose a well-drained spot and improve the broader planting area with mature compost if needed.
- Set the root ball outside the driest strip next to the wall. If a roof overhang keeps rain off the soil, plant beyond the dry strip. Follow the label for planting depth.
- Water deeply at planting. Train young stems with soft ties and check soil moisture through the first growing seasons.
- Apply about 5 to 8 cm of organic mulch where suitable and keep it clear of the crown. Check ties and keep stems away from gutters, roofs and openings. Remove dead wood and prune according to the species.
Mycorrhizae at planting
Mycorrhizal fungi can partner with the roots of compatible plants. If you choose an inoculant for a flowering perennial, use a product labelled for that plant and follow the package directions.
Frequently asked questions
Which perennial climber should I grow on a fence?
Clematis works on a fine trellis and offers showy flowers. For more coverage, choose a more vigorous species and make sure the fence can carry its mature weight.
Can I grow a perennial climber in a container?
Yes, in a large container with drainage holes and a stable support. Container roots are more exposed to freezing. Choose a sufficiently hardy plant or provide suitable winter protection.
Are climbing plants bad for your house?
It depends on how they climb and on the condition of the wall. Keep self-clinging plants off fragile siding and masonry with cracked or crumbling joints. A freestanding trellis leaves room to inspect and maintain the wall.
Which perennial climber can grow in partial shade?
Climbing hydrangea is an option for moist, well-drained soil and a support that can carry its mature weight. Some hardy clematis also tolerate partial shade. Check the cultivar’s light and hardiness requirements before buying.
When should I plant perennial climbers in Canada?
Spring is a good time to plant when the soil is workable. Early fall can also work if the plant has time to establish before the soil freezes. Water during dry spells, especially while the plant is establishing.
When should I prune a climbing plant?
Prune for the species and its flowering habit. With clematis, check the pruning group on the label. A spring-flowering cultivar may already carry next season’s buds on older stems.
Outils
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