Plants such as clematis and wisteria give height and vertical interest to the garden. If you are considering growing climbers, take a look at the table below to see a selection of the best.
Plant: Actinidia Kolomikta
Description: Deciduous twining perennial grown for its colored foliage featuring pink, white and green leaves although this can take some years to come through. Grows to about 12ft (4m).
Care: The colored foliage is better and more likely to appear if grown against a warm wall.
Plant: Bougainvillea
Description: Its main attraction is the brilliantly colored bracts surrounding insignificant flowers. Most varieties grow to around 15ft (5m).
Care: A tender plant for the conservatory or greenhouse in cooler climates
Plant: Clematis
Description: Grown for their beautiful flowers. There are many varieties so one or more can be found to suit most soil and climate conditions.
Care: Grow against walls or through trees and other shrubs. Check which type you have as this affects pruning times.
Plant: Hedera
Description: Common name, ivy, this large genus of plants is ideal for growing up walls, fences or even as ground cover.
Care: Grow well in all soil types and conditions. They need a year or two to become established.
Plant: Hydrangea Anomala
Description: A vigorous climber, grows to 35ft + (9m). Small white flowers grown as lacy heads.
Care: Grow against a wall or at the base of a tree.
Plant: Jasminum
Description: Both summer and winter flowering varieties of jasmine are grown for their flowers and scent.
Care: Grow in well drained soil, in warm sheltered spots.
Plant: Lathyrus
Description: Common name – sweet pea. Grown for flowers and scent.
Care: The most commonly grown varieties are annuals. They like well manured, well drained soil.
Plant: Lonicera
Description: Common name – honeysuckle. Many varieties, are grown for flowers and scents.
Care: Grow in sun or partial shade, good well-drained soil. Good to grow through trees or up pergolas.
Plant: Parthenocissus
Description: Virginia creeper, Boston ivy, etc. These are principally grown for the beautiful color of their autumn foliage.
Care: Prepare planting spot well with well-rotted manure. Support until they can cling for themselves.
Plant: Passiflora
Description: Passionflower – grown for their prominent and dramatic flowers.
Care: Needs protection from frost. Grow in a sheltered sunny site.
Plant: Roses
Description: Climbers and ramblers. Grow up walls, through trees, and over pergolas.
Care: Plant close to whatever they are growing on. Conditions as for other roses.
Plant: Wisteria
Description: Grown for their distinctive flowers and often seen grown against the walls of old houses.
Care: Will grow in most soils but prepare poorer soils with well-rotted manure. Protect from cold winds. The flower buds can be damaged by frost.
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