Question
Greetings,
I am planning to plant creeping vines on a trellis.  The area is only about 8 feet long and approximately 9 feet tall.  After much research, I have my heart set on any of the following- virginia creeper, trumpet honeysuckle, or trumpet vine (the area is fully sun exposed, which seems to meet conditions for all).  Given the area dimensions, how many plants would you say are appropriate?  Even with diligent pruning, I'm nervous I'll end up with a tangled mess.
thanks,
K Mangione


Answer
Hi K.,

I am partial to trumpet honeysuckle and I think it's the best selection for the limited space. Both trumpet vine and virginia creeper are very vigorous growers and you will be  forever pruning them back as both will far exceed the height of the 9 foot trellis. Incidentally, the yellow variety of trumpet honeysuckle interplanted with pale blue clematis makes for a spectacular combination. I'm assuming that you will only be planting one variety of the vines you you listed as opposed to all three. If you do intend on planting all three then I'm afraid you WILL wind up with tangled mess.

I would only plant one trumpet vine in the space the you have. You could probably get away with two virginia creepers as they tend to grow up more than out. Two honeysuckles will also be sufficient for your space as well.  

I hope this helps,

Regards,

Vito