Here Chris Bonnett from GardeningExpress.co.uk suggests his favourite climbers for gardens in the UK.
Climbing plants really are stunning – they spring into life at this time of year with their beautiful foliage, fragrant blooms and create an eye-catching display in the garden.
They allow gardeners to maximise the available space and are ideal for covering unsightly garden structures, fences, pergolas and trellis.
The added bonus is that many climbers are low maintenance. There are shade lovers and sun worshippers, you can grow them in pots, in the garden – there really is the perfect climber for every garden and design.
Spring and autumn are the perfect time to plant climbers. I’ve picked out some of my favourties to help gardeners make the right decision for their outside space.
Clematis Armandii
The is the only fragrant clematis and is a beautiful climber. This elegant plant has long, dark green leaves which droop to make an architectural statement. The glossy flowers bloom in clusters around this time of year (March / April) and will fill the spring air with a lovely fragrance. Clematis Armandii loves full sun but will grow in partial shade and will thrive in rich organic soil.
Honeysuckle
Honeysuckle flowers through May until July with the fragrant blooms turning the garden into a sweet smelling haven. Take a walk past the plant early in the morning or evening to smell at its fragrant best. This plant is easy to well and will thrive in partial shade. Remember to prune every year to allow them to continue to flourish.
Trumpet Vine
Trumpet Vine is perfect for a sunny wall, trellis, fence or pergola, producing masses of trumpet shaped flowers. Its bushy form gives added dimension with the exotic looking flowers in bloom from late summer to autumn. This is a low maintenance, easy to grow plant which will create an impact in the garden.
Evergreen Star Jasmin
The Evergreen Star Jasmin produces masses of highly perfumed white flowers which will leave your garden sweet smelling. Flowers bloom from late summer with the rich green leaves, turning bronze in winter adding all year interest.
This is best grown against a warm sunny wall or spot in the garden and will thrive in well drained soil.
Wisteria Blue Moon
Wisteria Blue Moon is a stunning climber which will bloom throughout the summer. The green foliage and light blue / purple flowers will create a beautiful display. This wisteria is very versatile and will grow in moist soils, well drained soils, full sun or partial shade.
