Dutchman’s Pipe definitely has what it takes to thrive in our gardens for years to come. You’ve probably seen those massive, lush specimens around town that prove just how hardy they can be. But if you want yours to live a long, beautiful life, it all starts with getting the planting right.
Step One: Finding the Perfect Spot
The location you choose needs to check a few boxes for this vine. First, let’s talk size. When you first bring it home, it’ll look pretty small and might grow a bit slowly for the first 4 or 5 years. But once it settles in? It hits the turbo button. We’re talking growth spurts of up to 6 feet per year! Eventually, this climber can easily reach 30 feet high and 20 feet wide. Since they don’t handle being moved very well, you need to pick a spot that has plenty of room for it to spread out and space for a sturdy trellis from day one. Here are the other things to keep in mind:
- Full sun to partial shade.
- It can handle full shade, but it’ll grow much slower.
- Loose, moist soil that doesn’t get waterlogged.
- If your soil is heavy, mix in some sand to help with drainage.
Quick Tip:
If you can find a spot that’s protected from the wind, your vine will thank you. Those long, thin shoots can snap if a nasty gust catches them just right.
When to Plant
If you’re buying a plant from a nursery, March or April is the perfect time to get it in the ground. However, if you propagated it yourself from seeds or cuttings, it’s better to wait until May. While a mature Dutchman’s Pipe is totally winter hardy, the youngsters are a bit more sensitive to the cold.
How to Plant Your Vine
- Dunk the entire pot in a bucket of water until the root ball is completely soaked.
- While that’s soaking, dig a hole that’s plenty big enough for the roots.
- If your soil needs help, mix in some sand or add a drainage layer at the bottom.
- Set up your support system. Long, vertical wires or sturdy poles work best.
- Place the vine in the hole, fill it back in with soil, and tamp it down firmly.
- Give it a good soak and keep the soil consistently moist (but not soggy) while it gets established.
- Shade the base of the plant, especially if it’s in a sunny spot.
Quick Tip:
Dutchman’s Pipe is a bit of a space hog—not many other plants can compete with its aggressive growth. Give it at least 6 feet of breathing room from other plants. This goes for planting multiple vines along a wall, too!
Growing in Containers
Since this vine handles pruning like a champ, you can actually grow it in a large container (just make sure it has great drainage). You’ll still need loose soil and a trellis for it to climb. Just remember that container plants need a little extra TLC in the winter—since the roots are above ground, they can freeze much easier than they would in the garden.
