Gardens Alive! & Supplies
Planting Guide for Vines
Vines are a versatile and dynamic addition to any garden, prized for their ability to quickly cover structures, walls, or fences with lush foliage and vibrant blooms. Gardeners love them for their space-saving growth habits, ability to create stunning vertical displays, and the wide variety of species that thrive in different conditions. Whatever vine you decide to plant in your garden, make sure your vine has adequate plant support to support the vine's weight, growth, and beauty.
How to Plant Vines
When planting vines, ensure they are placed at least 1 foot away from the house to allow for proper air circulation. After planting, cut the vines back slightly and secure them with stakes. Gently firm the soil around the roots and apply fertilizer once new growth appears. Vines thrive with consistent watering and well-drained soil. Here are some specific care tips for popular types of vines:
Vine Planting Guide by Type
Here are some specific care tips for popular types of vines:
Bittersweet
Bittersweet vines are ideal for poor soils and tolerates full sun to shade. These vines require both a male and female plant to produce fruit. This vine is perfect for covering fences, rock piles, or old trees.
Boston Ivy
Boston Ivy prefers highly organic soil and requires sturdy support. Avoid planting on wood siding, as the invasive tendrils can cause damage. We recommend pruning in the spring to maintain shape.
Clematis
For current-season bloomer varieties like Vancouver, prune to about 1 foot in late winter or early spring to promote new growth. Old-wood bloomer varieties like Multi-Blue can be pruned lightly after spring blooming.
Honeysuckle
Honeysuckle thrives in full to partial sun and requires sturdy support like a fence. Prune in the spring, removing any dead or broken vines to encourage healthy growth.
Hops
For hops, plant root cuttings horizontally in a 6-inch-deep trench, covering with 2 inches of soil. Gradually fill in the trench as the vine grows and keeps the soil consistently moist.
Roses
Climbing Roses thrive in full sun for the best flowering results. We recommend pruning in late winter or early spring to remove any dead or damaged areas to encourage new growth. Be sure to provide a sturdy trellis, fence, or structure for the roses to climb.
Silver Lace
Silver Lace is a versatile twining vine that adapts to a variety of growing conditions. Make sure to provide strong support and prune in the spring to manage growth.
Trumpet Vine
Trumpet Vines prefers full sun and needs secure support. It may take 3-7 years to bloom after planting. Make sure to prune vigorously in the spring, as it flowers on new growth.
Wisteria
Wisteria favors slightly acidic, organic soil and takes 3-5 years to flower. They require strong support and aggressive trimming during summer to control growth. We recommend pruning in the spring to encourage the development of flower spurs.
