TOP TIPS FOR VERTICAL PLANTING

Include walls or fences in your garden scheme to increase the chance of greening up your space, however limited it may be.

Provide sturdy wires or trellising to tie in new growth or for twining climbers to take hold. Prune regularly.

Choose your planting to suit the aspect. South or west-facing is best for sun-lovers such as trachelospermum or wisteria, while north or east-facing suits climbing hydrangea or akebia.

Plant at least 50cm away from the base of the wall to ensure sufficient rainwater reaches the roots.

Consider a living wall system consisting of pots or pockets of soil in which you can grow plants such as succulents, herbs or ferns. Professional installation and an irrigation system are recommended, but the results are worth the outlay.

Self-clinging plants such as ivy and ‘Virginia Creeper’ are vigorous, attractive and great for wildlife, but they can damage the wall’s mortar.