Her vines are delicate—I mean, *really* delicate. While that dainty look is part of her charm, it doesn’t do much for stability. Left to her own devices, this climber isn’t going anywhere but down. To help her reach for the sky, she needs a solid support system she can wrap herself around.
Choosing the Right Support
The sky is the limit when it comes to supports: stakes, trellises, hanging twine, fences, or even balcony railings can do the trick. You can find gorgeous garden obelisks at the store that act as a focal point all on their own, or you can grab your toolbox and DIY a custom trellis for your Black-eyed Susan vine. No matter which route you take, keep these requirements in mind:
- Stick to slender, delicate elements (nothing too chunky)
- Make sure it’s sturdy
- Aim for height (at least 6 feet tall)
- Ensure it can be securely anchored
Keep an eye on her as she grows—Black-eyed Susan vines naturally wind counter-clockwise, but they occasionally need a little “gentle guidance” and a bit of garden twine to keep things looking tidy.
Provide Support from Day One
You’ll want to have your trellis ready early because these plants are fast movers, easily climbing up to 6 feet in a single season. If you’re growing your own from seeds or cuttings, start providing small supports shortly after transplanting the seedlings. If you’re moving a plant outside after overwintering it indoors, the trellis should be waiting for her the moment she hits the soil. Pro tip: For potted plants, use a support that attaches directly to the container. This keeps the whole setup mobile if you need to move it!
Let Her Climb in the Sun
Don’t just put a trellis anywhere; you have to follow the light. This African native needs a full-sun location, or she simply won’t bloom. It doesn’t matter how perfect a spot is for a trellis if it’s stuck in the shade! Also, try not to plant her flush against a solid wall; she thrives best when there’s plenty of air circulating around her vines.
Quick Tip:
Once the vines outgrow their support, feel free to trim them back. If your plant is healthy, don’t toss those clippings! Black-eyed Susan is actually edible and has a peppery flavor similar to watercress—perfect for tossing into a summer salad.
The Hanging Basket Alternative
If you’re working with a small balcony and don’t have room for a tall trellis, try a hanging basket instead. It’s a fantastic alternative! Just hang the basket high up or secure it to the edge of the railing so the vines can trail down and create a beautiful floral curtain.
