Annual Flowering Vines

Posted by Hugh on March 17th, 2017

Exotic love vine (Mina lobata)

Thunbergia ‘Sunrise Surprise’

This spring try vertical gardening. There are a number of annual flowering vines that grow in either the ground or in a large container. Some offer cooling shade on a deck or patio. Vines are highly ornamental with attractive flowers, foliage, and/or fruits.

Annual vines grow quickly after planting. Plant seeds of these vines at the base of the trellis as soon as soil has warmed in April and May. For a dense cover, space seedlings 6 to 12 inches apart. In northern areas, where growing season is short, some vines like morning glory and hyacinth bean vine should be started from seed indoors and transplanted outside when threat of spring frost has waned.

Most annual vines climb by twisting around a support. Some attach themselves by means of wrap-around tendrils. Trellises come in many shapes and sizes, constructed of wood or metal. Supports can be simple from a single length of wire or sturdy twine (jute) cord. How about construct a support that mimics a spider’s web.

Annual vines have specific growing needs. For example, sweet pea vines bear clusters of flowers in late spring and early summer (depending on region of the country). Flowers come in a wide choice of colors (red, pink, blue, white and purple), are highly scented, and make excellent cut flowers. Sweet peas stop blooming and vines wither in hot dry weather.

For most vines full sun and an organically rich soil (or potting medium) are perfect. In hot weather climates, provide partial shade in the afternoon. Mature size will depend on plant species; some vines may reach to 15 to 20 feet by autumn. Pinching off the terminal tips will encourage branching. In the first 4 to 6 weeks train the direction of growing shoots with ties. Most vines benefit from monthly feeding with a water soluble fertilizer such as Miracle-Gro™, Schultz™, Daniels™.

Cup and Saucer Vine, Cathedral Bells (Cobaea scandens)