Looking to turn that boring fence into a lush, living wall? You’ve come to the right place! Adding climbing plants is one of the easiest ways to bring some serious charm and privacy to your yard. Not only do these favorites provide a gorgeous green backdrop, but they also offer some pretty spectacular blooms.
[[plants]]
++Clematis
Clematis is a true garden classic. Since it’s native to many temperate forest regions, it’s incredibly hardy and handles various climates like a pro. Because it’s a perennial, you can let it work its magic year after year, eventually covering your fence in a fairytale-like blanket of vines. During the clematis blooming season, you’ll be treated to a vibrant explosion of color that’s sure to make your neighbors a little jealous.
++Sweet Peas (Lathyrus odoratus)
If you’re looking for instant gratification, Sweet Peas are the way to go. Even though they are annuals, they grow incredibly fast and can cover a large fence in no time. But the real selling point? The smell! Their colorful blossoms release a heavenly fragrance that fills the air. Their delicate stems are lightweight, making them a perfect choice for lighter wooden fences that might not handle a heavier vine.
++Chinese Wisteria (Wisteria sinensis)
Wisteria is the showstopper of the climbing plant world. When it’s in full bloom, it looks like a literal waterfall of purple flowers. Just a heads-up: this plant is a long-term commitment. It develops thick, woody trunks over the years and gets very heavy. A flimsy wooden fence or a rain gutter might actually collapse under its weight! Make sure you plant wisteria against a very sturdy structure or a solid metal fence.
++Nasturtium (Tropaeolum majus)
Nasturtiums bring a fiery pop of red, yellow, and orange to the garden. The flowers really stand out against the lush, round green leaves. It’s a huge favorite for fences because it’s so easy to grow. Since it’s sensitive to frost, most gardeners treat it as an annual and sow the seeds fresh every spring. Fun fact: the flowers and leaves are actually edible and have a peppery kick!
++Black-Eyed Susan Vine (Thunbergia alata)
With its bright petals and distinct dark center, it’s easy to see how this African native got its name. It’s a versatile choice that looks just as good on a fence as it does in a balcony hanging basket. While it’s not frost-hardy, it grows fast enough that if you start your seeds early, you’ll have a stunning, flowery screen by mid-summer. You can try to overwinter it indoors, but honestly, it’s usually easier to just start fresh each year.
++Climbing Hydrangea (Hydrangea anomala ssp. petiolaris)
Hydrangeas are beloved for their massive, pillowy blooms, and the climbing variety is no exception. It’s a fantastic way to add elegance to a fence line. Just be mindful of where you put it—while it likes some light, it can be a bit of a “Goldilocks.” Too much harsh, direct midday sun can scorch the leaves, so a spot with some afternoon shade is usually best.
++Morning Glory (Ipomoea tricolor)
If you need a fence covered *yesterday*, Morning Glory is your best bet. There are very few plants that grow as aggressively fast as this one. It’s famous for its beautiful trumpet-shaped flowers that come in incredibly vivid blues and purples. The blooms usually start showing up in July and keep the party going all summer long.
++Winter Jasmine
Who says your garden has to be boring in the winter? Winter Jasmine is a total game-changer because it produces bright yellow flowers right in the middle of the coldest months. It’s a vigorous grower, so if it starts getting a bit too wild or heavy for your fence, don’t be afraid to give it a good prune. It’s a tough plant and handles a haircut very well!