Climbers are a unique
group of plants with distinct characteristics that can add value and diversity
in any garden. One of the most common characteristics of climbers is their
ability to grow vertically and sometimes horizontally against man-made
structures such as against fences, house walls, posts, wire/trellis, or even
other plants such as tree trunks. Climbers have developed various leaf and stem
modifications that assist them to grow (climb). These modifications include
stems, leaf apices, petiole, tendrils, hooks, aerial/adventitious roots and in
some cases sucker discs that reach out to any object that will assist them to
grow.
Over the past 17 years of
horticulture practice at Poetry in Gardens, climbers have been used to cover
fences and walls or create a floral display by growing against pergolas and
arbors. Clients, in many instances, perceive climbers as plants with limited
use. Nowadays, climbers are used more extensively in landscapes and in urban
horticulture projects that include concepts such as “green walls” and garden
beds with mass planting of fragrant climbers. Each case is unique to a number
of plant and site characteristics including soil conditions, sun aspect,
surrounding vegetation, space for growth and support as well as maintenance and
access to water.
Fig. 1 below showcases a Wisteria sp. in full flower that is growing in a support system
between two posts. The objective is to add vertical plant foliage and flowers
that complement and enhance the garden theme.
Fig. 1 Wisteria sinensis (Chinese wisteria)
Balwyn North.
In Fig.2 we see a trellis
system against a brick wall that acts as a support system for Hoya sp.
to grow. The site of the garden is in shade and there is minimal space for
growth of other plant species.
Fig.
2 Hoya carnosa (Wax Plant) Balwyn
North.
Fig. 3 Illustrates the
effect of a prolific Chinese Jasmine that grows alongside a carport. When in
full bloom the Jasmine “steals” by-passers and neighbours attention with its
vivid colour and fragrance.
Fig.
3 Jasminum polyanthum (Chinese
Jasmine) Montmorency.
In Fig. 4 a Star Jasmine
is growing in pots against a wire system that has been installed in an “X”
shape to cover the wall of a small court-yard.
Fig. 4 Trachelospermum jasminoides (Star
Jasmine) Albert Park.
