Spring or fall are ideal planting times. Planting the less hardy varieties in the spring will give them ample time to settle in before winter arrives. In the spring, sow seeds indoors to grow annual climbers.
Where to plant wall shrubs and climbers
Wall shrubs and climbers should be planted 45 centimetres (18 inches) away from a wall's base to let rain get to the root zone. By planting away from the wall, in addition to preventing their roots from being restricted by foundations or rubble, they avoid the dry, poor soil typically found at the base of walls. In a similar vein, when planting climbers to grow into trees, dig the planting hole 50 centimetres (20 inches) away from the trunk's base and away from the main roots. This will allow the plant to grow against the wall or fence. Utilise a bamboo cane, if necessary, to assist the climber in reaching its final resting place.
There are plants for every situation, from full sun to shade, so before you buy one, read the labels on the plants carefully. If you don't choose the right plant for your circumstances, it won't ever prosper.
Climbers and wall shrubs, with the exception of the most vigorous varieties, can thrive in large containers; however, they will need regular watering and feeding throughout the growing season. Tender climbers can be grown outdoors during the summer months in a warm, sheltered location. They can be moved into a frost-free location during the winter more easily if they are planted in large containers.
Watering
The majority of climbers and wall shrubs prefer soil that drains freely, so improve the structure of the soil by adding a lot of garden compost or leaf mould to the entire planting area. In addition to increasing soil fertility and the number of beneficial soil microorganisms, this also aids in the retention of summertime moisture in the soil. Water newly planted climbers and wall shrubs frequently for at least the first growing season until they are fully established.
Throughout the growing season, those in containers will require watering as soon as the compost surface becomes dry.
Watering is especially important for plants that are growing in the rain shadow of walls, fences, or under the eaves of a house, especially in the summer.
Feeding
To boost flowering, you can apply a high-potassium fertiliser (such as Vitax Q4), at the dose recommended on the packet.
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