The most popular variety of the trumpet vine actually hails from the tropical regions of the Americas. Because of those roots, it’s a fan of moderate temperatures and is surprisingly easygoing about where you plant it. While it’s not particularly picky, if you want that spectacular explosion of flowers, you’ll definitely want to find it a sunny spot.
Ways to Grow Your Trumpet Vine
As a vigorous climber, the trumpet vine (also known as Campsis) is incredibly versatile. You can grow it:
- Directly in your garden beds
- Against walls or the side of your house
- In large pots on your balcony or patio
Since these plants love to reach for the sky and produce long, trailing shoots, you’ll always want to provide a sturdy trellis or arbor. Giving them something to grab onto ensures they stay secure and look their best no matter where they’re planted.
Finding the Perfect Spot
When a trumpet vine is happy, it’ll let you know with rapid growth and a regular, stunning display of blooms. For the most part, though, these plants are low-maintenance and very adaptable. They aren’t going to throw a fit over specific soil or site conditions.
Sun and Warmth
Your trumpet vine will perform best in a warm, sunny location. It actually loves having its “head” (the upper foliage) in full sun. However, it prefers to keep its “feet” (the base and roots) a bit cooler. A great pro-tip is to plant some low-growing groundcover around the base to provide some shade. Also, try to pick a spot that’s somewhat protected from harsh winds or heavy downpours.
The Right Soil
Generally speaking, the trumpet vine isn’t fussy about soil. It’ll grow just about anywhere! If you want to give it the VIP treatment, aim for loose, nutrient-rich soil with plenty of organic matter. Don’t worry too much about the pH level, either—it’s just as happy in acidic soil as it is in alkaline conditions.
Growing Trumpet Vines in Containers
If you’re short on garden space, you’ll be happy to know that trumpet vines do great in pots and planters. Just make sure the container is heavy enough to be stable and include a trellis so the vines have a place to go. They look absolutely gorgeous adding a pop of color to a balcony or deck!
When potting them up, choose a container that gives the root ball plenty of room to breathe. Start with a good drainage layer of sand or expanded clay pellets at the bottom, then fill the rest with a loose, high-quality potting mix.
