Top 10 Fastest Growing Vines and Climbers
Flowering vines grown on a garden structure make a beautiful addition to any garden or outdoor space. Giving you stunning vertical interest as well offering shade and attracting crucial pollinators - add a fast growing climber and you have the perfect quick and easy way to add instant impact.
Climbing plants and flowering vines are a great addition to your garden and can transform a Garden Arches, Pergola or Gazebo into a dramatic feature. Likewise, Screens and Trellis can help divide your garden, disguise a building or boundary or adding a living wall of colour and scent to your deck or terrace.
There is a huge range of fabulous plants to choose from but we've selected 10 fast growing climbers that will give you great results in the first season.
10 Best Fast-Growing Climbers
Climbing Roses (Rosa spp.)
Climbing roses over a Garden Arch are a classic choice and they are also a great addition tobany Screen or Trellis. With stunning, fragrant blooms and variety of colors these hardy climbers are well-suited for various climates, from the temperate regions of the Pacific Northwest to the hot and humid summers in the South. Fast growing in nature, they require regular pruning and support but are well worth the effort for their timeless beauty.
Trumpet Vine (Campsis radicans):
Also known as Trumpet Creeper, this vigorous native vine is a popular choice for trellises in many parts of the United States. It produces striking, trumpet-shaped orange or red flowers that attract hummingbirds. Trumpet vine is particularly well-suited for the South and Southwest, where it can handle the heat and drought conditions with ease.
Clematis (Clematis spp.):
Clematis are known for their elegant, star-shaped blooms in various colors and forms - most are cut back hard in the winter but will easily cover a garden arch or structure with new growth each season. Suitable for most regions of the USA, there are different varieties that thrive in different climates, rom the hardy and reliable Clematis 'Nelly Moser' in cooler climates to the heat-tolerant Clematis 'Betty Corning' for the South - there's a clematis for every garden.
Wisteria (Wisteria spp.):
Wisteria vines are renowned for their cascading clusters of fragrant, lavender, blue, or white flowers. They are well-suited for screens and Pergolas and are particularly popular in the South and Pacific Northwest. Wisteria can grow rapidly, so proper pruning and support are essential to maintain their stunning appearance.
Honeysuckle (Lonicera spp.):
Honeysuckle is loved for the sweetly scented, tubular flowers that come in a range of colors, including white, yellow, and red. They are fast growing and adaptable thriving in various climates across the USA, making them a versatile choice. The native Trumpet Honeysuckle (Lonicera sempervirens) is an excellent choice for attracting hummingbirds.
Passion Flower (Passiflora spp.):
Passion flowers are known for their intricate, exotic blooms. These vines are ideal for warmer regions, such as the Southeast and Southwest, as they require plenty of sunlight and warmth to thrive. The showy flowers are not only stunning but also attract pollinators and growing on an Arch or Pergola will ensure a perfectly display.
Jasmine (Jasminum spp.):
Jasmine vines are prized for their fragrant, white or yellow flowers. They are excellent choice in the Southern and Southwestern States, as they prefer warm, sunny conditions where the scent of blooming jasmine can fill the air.
Morning Glory (Ipomoea spp.):
Morning glories are annual vines that are beloved for their vibrant, trumpet-shaped flowers that bloom in the morning. They are a popular choice for trellises and arches in all regions of the USA, offering a burst of color and a touch of nostalgia to any garden.
Hydrangea Vine (Schizophragma hydrangeoides):
If you're looking for a unique flowering vine, consider the climbing hydrangea vine. It features lacecap-like blooms and thrives in the shade. This vine is an excellent choice for trellises in regions with limited direct sunlight, such as the Northeast and Pacific Northwest.
Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea spp.):
Bougainvillea is famous for its brilliant, papery bracts that come in a variety of colors, including shades of pink, purple, and red. These vines are perfect for Pergola and Trellises in the warmer regions of the USA, such as the Southwest and Florida, where they can thrive and create a tropical ambiance.
When selecting a flowering vine be sure to consider your climate, soil type, and the specific needs of the plant. Proper care and maintenance, including regular pruning and adequate support on a robust structure such as an Arch or Trellis ensure that your vines flourish and create a stunning display.
Whether you prefer the timeless beauty of climbing roses, the vibrant colors of bougainvillea, or the fragrance of jasmine, these flowering vines will add charm and elegance to your landscape, creating a focal point of beauty and interest throughout the year.
How to get your vine to grow over an Arch or Trellis
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when planting climbing vines to ensure their health and prosperity:
- Prioritize Plant Health: Begin by planting robust climbing vines with healthy root systems.
- Select a Strong Support Structure: Choose a sturdy and supportive framework that can withstand the weight of growing vines. This may include Trellises, Arches, or Pergolas.
- Offer Initial Guidance: While many plants climb with the help of twining stems, certain plants, like roses, may require initial guidance to start their upward climb. Help them along by gently weaving their tendrils through the support structure, ensuring they grow in the desired direction. Adding Lattice to your structure will help to establish a secure framework and allow you to tie your vine in to the structure as it matures.
- Regular Maintenance: Make a habit of inspecting your vines regularly. If you notice any wayward growth, gently redirect it and secure it in place using wire ties for added support.
- Provide Aftercare: Make sure you continue to care for your vine as it grows including regular pruning to remove dead or overgrown foliage and consistently watering to keep the plants hydrated. Replenishing mulch around the base of the vines annually can help maintain soil moisture and suppress weed growth.
