Cover your garden fence with the ‘fastest growing’ climbing plant gardening expert loves
There's one fast-growing climbing plant that gardening experts swear by, and it could be the easiest way to add beauty and privacy to your outdoor space.
A plain fence or wall can spoil an otherwise beautiful garden, but one fast-growing climbing plant could be the perfect fix. To quickly transform it into a lush, green backdrop, gardening experts recommend one standout plant: the trumpet vine.
Known as the "fastest growing" climber, it’s ideal for covering fences quickly. The vine is also known for its bold, eye-catching, vibrant flowers, which add instant visual appeal. TikTok creator and garden expert Michael - the gardener (@themediterraneangardener) swears by it for fast, dramatic results; he said, "Looking for a climber that's a little bit different, then maybe consider the trumpet vine."
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Michael continued: "Trumpet vines or Campsis radicans are a vigorous woody climber grown for its attractive orange-red trumpet-like flowers in contrast to its lush green leaves.
"Fast-growing, it will quickly cover a wall or a fence." He went on to say, "If you're looking for a climber that flowers late summer to autumn, then this one is for you."
How to grow Trumoet Vines
The expert gardener explained: "Grow Campsis in moist but well-drained soil in sunny spots, such as against a warm sunny wall. Prune back in the late winter or early spring to control its growth.
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@themediterraneangardener The fastest growing climbing plant? This is one of the fastest growing climbers for your garden, trellis, fence, pergola or anywhere else it can twine itself along. Growing trumpet vine is really easy and although some gardeners consider the plant invasive, with adequate care and pruning, trumpet vines can be kept under control. #gardeningtiktok #garden #gardening #gardentok ♬ Little Things - Adrián Berenguer
Trumpet vines can grow up to 30 to 40 feet tall and four to 10 feet wide. They need to grow in full sun to partial shade, which means at least six hours of direct sunlight on most days.
According to garden experts at the Spruce, these plants "only need watering when there are obvious signs of wilt and withering. In most climates, the typical rainfall will be sufficient to keep the plants healthy.
"About one inch of water per week, through a combination of rainfall and/or irrigation, is entirely sufficient for good plant performance."
No fertilisers are required for Trumpet vines; they are "aggressive spreaders" and can thrive in lean soil. The soil type must be sandy, clay, moist, and well-drained.
"These vigorous vines do not require any particular care once they are done blooming," reported the Spruce. However, running is recommended in the spring before growth starts.
"Cut the plant back to nearly ground level, leaving only a few buds. It is also okay to cut back in late autumn after the leaves have dried and fallen. This kind of aggressive annual pruning is the best way to keep the plant in check," said the gardening experts.
Gardeners should be aware that the trumpet vine has rampant growth, which means it should be planted at least six to 12 feet away from buildings or trees.
These plants are also highly flammable, so it is unwise to plant them next to foundations or building walls where wildfires are a known hazard. Experts at the Spruce warned: "A neglected plant that is not pruned back annually can envelop a home or garage in a manner that creates a serious fire risk."
