A stunning display of container planted climbers, trained against trellis or over an obelisk, will add height, colour, fragrance and attract pollinators to any bare vertical space in a courtyard or on a balcony.
For healthy, easy-to-manage growth use large containers and the least vigorous climbers. Also, decide whether you want perennial or annual climber.
The Jasmine multipartum (Wild Jasmine) is a fabulous evergreen all-rounder, with its delicious sweet scent from star-shaped flowers.
A very popular choice is the Trachelospermum jasminoides (Star Jasmine), which will grow happily in sun or shade. It has glossy foliage and is covered in heavily scented white flowers from spring to summer.
For a vibrant burst of colour the Black-eyed Susan vine (Thunbergia Alata) is hard to beat. A native of South Africa, this perennial climber can remain evergreen in some areas. Choice of coloured blooms is varied, from white, cream, peach, yellow, deep orange or red small heart-shaped leaves.
Cape Honeysuckle (Tecomaria capensis) is a gorgeous, indigenous climber which loves full sun and has flowers of red, orange, yellow or salmon.
If you’re feeling adventurous why not try growing a stunning Bougainvillea in a large container. They love being pot-bound and there are compact varieties available which are more suited to containers.
As they are robust climbers a strong support is needed if grown against a wall or fence. With their flamboyant blooms in shades of purple, red, bright pink or orange Bougainvilleas cannot fail to look exotic and amazing!
The Potato Vine (Solanum jasminoides) is a fast-growing climber with clusters of fragrant light blue or white flowers and is very easy to grow.
To compliment your beautiful climber grow a few bedding plants around the base, such as lobelia, pansies, Perlagoliums or nasturtiums, you could even grow some small edibles like lettuce or spring onions.
