Depending on the effect we want to achieve and the strength of our pergola, we can choose between one or perennial decorative species, both from leaves and flowers. It is important that they grow fast, are resistant and easy to care for. Here are some suggestions for everyone.
Henry's (Lonicer Henry) Honeysuckle- is a perennial, evergreen climber with decorative leaves and beautiful, fragrant flowers. Thanks to annual increments of 100 cm, it quickly covers the pergolas, creating a green canopy covered with pale orange, tubular flowers.The main advantages of honeysuckle are the ability to regenerate, resistance and low requirements. Honeysuckle needs humus, well-drained, slightly moist soil and a sunny or semi-shade, sheltered position. Plants respond well to cutting. They like both organic and mineral fertilization. Honeysuckle is frost hardy enough to cope with most of our country. It regenerates quickly and easily if you get cold.
American Millionaire (Campsis radicans)- is a vigorously growing, perennial and extremely decorative climber. It is not even afraid of heavily polluted air, it is resistant and effective. Long (up to 10 m) shoots of the plant are densely overgrown with leaves in an unusual shade of green, against which large, trumpet-shaped flowers of red, orange and yellow color look beautiful. The flowers appear in July and last until September. Millin grows best in a warm, sheltered and sunny position.It prefers fertile soils with a slightly acidic to alkaline reaction. It is resistant to both short-term droughts and periodic flooding. It tolerates frost well, and regenerates quickly when it gets cold. Trumpet multiplied by shoot cuttings or layering usually starts flowering 2-3 years after planting.
Aubert's knotweed (Fallopia aubertii)- it is a climber that grows almost instantly. It grows up to 12 m a year! Green, heart-shaped leaves and clusters of tiny white flowers create a dense, green cover, covering even large areas without any problems. The knotweed blooms in summer, and the flowers last until October. The plant only sheds its leaves after the first frost. The advantages of knotweed also include low soil and nutritional requirements. It is resistant to diseases and pests. In a sunny position it grows quickly and blooms profusely. It requires frequent watering, mineral and organic fertilization. The knotweed responds well to the feeding of manure.In colder regions of the country, it is necessary to protect the root system with a thick layer of leaves or straw. It is easy to propagate by semi-woody cuttings and layering.
Aristolochia macrophylla- is an amazing perennial plant that requires solid supports. Large, heart-shaped leaves densely overgrow the creeping shoots, quickly creating a green screen. In autumn, the leaves take on a warm yellow color. Fantastic, original flowers appear in May and June. They resemble a brownish pipe and are a trap for insects. In autumn, they transform into elongated, purple, decorative fruits.
This beautiful climber is perfect for semi-shaded or shady, secluded areas of the garden. It has high nutritional requirements, prefers fertile, humus, alkaline and slightly moist soils. During the growing season it is necessary to water and fertilize the plants regularly. The arachnid tolerates pruning well and is fully frost-resistant.It is best to propagate it by woody cuttings and layering.
Schisandra chinensis- is a perennial climber growing up to 10 m in length. In the Far East, where it comes from, it is recognized as a medicinal plant. Large, ovate, green leaves set on reddish petioles turn orange-yellow in autumn. In May, the plant blooms, and in autumn it produces large clusters of small red berries. Schizandra fruits can be eaten raw or processed, e.g. in the form of dried fruits, juices, extracts, infusions, tinctures. Citrus should have a sunny or slightly shaded position and a moist, fertile substrate. It does not like drought, so during the growing season, the plants should be watered frequently, but in moderation. Mulching will help prevent water from evaporating quickly from the substrate. The plant also requires regular fertilization, from spring to autumn. Chinese Schisandra is fully frost-resistant and can do without sheltering for the winter. It is best to propagate the plant by shoot cuttings and layering.New plants can also be obtained by sowing seeds.
See also:
Clematis - climbers for sun and shade
Climbers in the garden - which ones to choose?
