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Q
We have a north-facing and shady garden with a big stone wall at the back. What can we grow up the wall?
A
The climbing hydrangea is one of my go-to plants in this situation. It will self cling to the wall, so no need to attach a climbing frame, such as wires or trellis, and it has beautiful white hydrangea flowers in summer.
It does take a while to get going so you need to be patient. Ivy is always good in these situations and there are many beautiful cultivars, some with unusual leaf shape and variegations. You could also add in some honeysuckle for some gorgeous summer fragrance. When planting a climber next to a stone wall, be aware that the soil at the base is usually very dry and you might hit some foundations so plant at least a foot away from the wall and lead the plant towards it with the support of a cane.