Most climbing plants need to be attached to a support, or at least guided towards the support to help them hold on.
Some plants, such as clematis, climbing roses, jasmine and honeysuckle, need the support of a structure to facilitate their growth.
It's best to set up the support before planting your climbing plant.
As your climbing plant grows, tie it to the support in several places with garden twine, spreading out the shoots.
Don't tie it too tightly.
Simply support and direct the plant as it grows.
Varieties such as sweet peas, clematis and rambler roses will naturally grow upwards and through the support, wrapping their shoots around the structure to support their own growth.
Choose supports that are strong enough for the plants you wish to guide or support.
Choose weather-resistant materials (galvanized steel, painted or treated wood).
AestheticsConsider the decorative aspect of the support.
They can serve as interesting focal points in the garden (flower arbors, obelisks marking the start of a path), or can delineate distinct areas (fences, trellis panels, pergolas).
You can also paint the structure in a bright color or one that contrasts with the bright flowers.
Not all climbing plants grow vertically.
Trellises come in many different shapes and sizes.
Be sure to choose a trellis strong enough to support the weight of the growing plant.
Several styles of trellis exist: wood, metal or wrought iron.
It's up to you to choose what best suits your garden style.
In some cases, a simple wooden or metal stake is all that's needed, placed in the soil when the seeds are planted or when the plant is put in the ground.
A straight stake or circular support, known as a plant support ring.
As the plants grow, use string or strips of fabric, loosely tied, to keep them upright.