Calhoun County, AL – Climbing vines add vertical beauty and structure to any garden, and among my favorites are clematis varieties. The Jackmanii Deep Purple Clematis is a standout, producing vigorous new growth each spring from dry root plantings. Another favorite, the City of Lyons Clematis, displays delicate white blooms with soft pink tones.
The true showstopper in my garden, however, is the Dwarf Amethyst Falls Wisteria. Unlike many wisteria varieties, this selection is non-invasive, with sterile seeds and compact blooms that measure about half the size of a hand. Because of its safe growing habit, I would not recommend any other type of wisteria.
For support, I use iron cattle panels and fencing panels as trellises, creating vertical walls that allow vines to climb. Planting in full sun is important for abundant blooms, but I’ve found a way to balance light and shade. By placing trellises at the edge of a shaded area, I allow sun to filter in from one side for maximum flowering, while the opposite side increases shade for hostas and ferns.
Many vines are available in pots and can be directly planted into the ground. For example, I keep my Kiss Red Mandevilla in pots to enjoy their rich summer color outdoors, then bring them inside during the winter. Always check labels for cold tolerance to ensure proper care.
I also enjoy growing English Variegated Ivy in pots, allowing it to cascade beautifully over the edges. While ivy can become invasive if left unmanaged, trimming twice a year and replanting cuttings helps keep it under control.
Through careful selection and thoughtful placement, climbing vines can provide both beauty and functionality, enhancing blooms while also creating natural shade for other plants.
Betty Clark is a contributing writer. She has been an organic gardener since 1998. The signature flower she grows is Dahlias. She has a straw bale garden, a raised bed garden, and an in-ground garden. Both her surnames are from agricultural farming families (8 generations). Her hobbies include ancestry research, antiques, continued education classes, and workshops. She also has a background in marketing & promotions, including expos. To contact Betty Clark with gardening questions: bettyclark2151959@gmail.com
