Cover fences with climbers

Climbers

can be used to make the most of every available growing space – a key element in cottage gardens. Use climbing roses, clematis and honeysuckle to clothe walls and fences or to scramble over arches and pergolas. Make space for an obelisk or two in your borders and grow compact roses and clematis, or annual climbers such as sweet peas or nasturtiums.

ROSES

Grow repeat-flowering climbers for blooms throughout summer, or ramblers for a mass of flowers in June. ‘Phyllis Bide’ is a compact rambler ideal for an obelisk. Both ‘Aloha’ and ‘New Dawn’ H3.5m (11ft) S2.5m (8ft) are well-behaved climbers. Plant in rich, well-drained soil. Flowers from June-October

CLEMATIS

These versatile plants come in a multitude of colours and styles including ruffled doubles, dainty bells and single blooms the size of dinner plates. There are hundreds of varieties to suit different locations. Look out for ‘Prince Charles’ H2.5m (8ft) S1m (3ft) and ‘Royal Velours’ H3m (10ft) S1.5m (5ft)

SWEET PEAS

A tendrilled climber with long stems and clusters of frilly, fragrant blooms June-Sept in a wide range of colours. Keep deadheading to encourage more flowers. For best scent grow ‘Charlie’s Angels’, ‘High Scent’ or ‘Mrs Collier’. Rich soil and full sun. Typical H1.8m (6ft) S45cm (18in)

HONEYSUCKLE

A twining climber with fragrant tubular flowers. Some varieties such as ‘Heaven Scent’ H7m (23ft) S3.5m (11ft) and ‘Graham Thomas’ are vigorous, but the new introduction ‘Rhubarb and Custard’ is compact and ideal for smaller gardens. Grow in rich, moist soil in sun or part shade. Flowers June–September