'Fastest-growing' climbing plant will cover fence 'quickly' - but comes with a warning
A plain fence or wall can look bare in an otherwise beautiful garden, but there's a fast-growing climbing plant that could be the perfect fix
A boring fence or wall can ruin an otherwise stunning garden, but one rapidly-growing climbing plant could provide the ideal solution.
To swiftly transform it into a lush, green backdrop, horticultural experts suggest one exceptional plant: the trumpet vine.
Dubbed the "fastest growing" climber, it's perfect for covering fences rapidly, reports the Express.
The vine is also renowned for its striking, attention-grabbing, vibrant blooms, which provide immediate visual impact.
TikTok creator and garden specialist Michael -who posts as @themediterraneangardener - champions it for quick, spectacular results; he said, "Looking for a climber that's a little bit different, then maybe consider the trumpet vine."
Michael continued: "Trumpet vines or Campsis radicans are a vigorous woody climber grown for its attractive orange-red trumpet-like flowers in contrast to its lush green leaves.
"Fast-growing, it will quickly cover a wall or a fence."
He went on to say, "If you're looking for a climber that flowers late summer to autumn, then this one is for you."
How to grow Trumpet vines
Trumpet vines can reach up to 30 to 40 feet in height and four to 10 feet in width.
They need full sun to partial shade, meaning at least six hours of direct sunlight on most days.
According to gardening specialists at the Spruce, these plants "only need watering when there are obvious signs of wilt and withering. In most climates, the typical rainfall will be sufficient to keep the plants healthy.
"About one inch of water per week, through a combination of rainfall and/or irrigation, is entirely sufficient for good plant performance."
Trumpet vines don't need any fertilisers; they're "aggressive spreaders" that can flourish in lean soil. The soil should be sandy, clayey, moist, and well-drained.
"These vigorous vines do not require any particular care once they are done blooming," reported the Spruce. However, pruning is recommended in the spring before growth starts.
"Cut the plant back to nearly ground level, leaving only a few buds. It is also okay to cut back in late autumn after the leaves have dried and fallen. This kind of aggressive annual pruning is the best way to keep the plant in check," said the gardening experts.
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Gardeners should note that the trumpet vine grows rapidly, so it should be planted at least six to 12 feet away from buildings or trees.
These plants are also highly flammable, so it's not wise to plant them next to foundations or building walls where wildfires are a known hazard.
Experts at the Spruce warned: "A neglected plant that is not pruned back annually can envelop a home or garage in a manner that creates a serious fire risk."