Some of the deciduous types may leave the landscape looking a little sad in winter when they lose their leaves, but the vast number provides the gardener with more color and foliage opportunities than their counterparts. Deciduous vine care may be a bit more difficult than hardy evergreens but will be worth it when they come back in all their glory in spring.
What are Deciduous Vines?
Deciduous vines are often noted for their spectacular spring color. The leaves change in response to day length and temperature cues, providing a stunning display in fall. If you are considering growing deciduous vines, check their hardiness level and make sure to provide some protection for roots during the cold season. Among the types of deciduous vines, you can choose from those that flower, fruit, or have spectacular foliage. There are twining, clinging, and sprawling species so selection starts with the amount of support needed. If you want a year-round screen, deciduous vines aren’t for you, as they will lose leaves and most of their interesting characteristics when cold temperatures arrive. It’s their sheer diversity, though, that allows the gardener some unique visual statements. Some vines are only deciduous in colder climates and will retain foliage in southern regions. Again, making sure the vine is hardy to your region will gain the most success with these types of plants.
How to Grow Deciduous Vines
You can narrow down your selections by hardiness, purpose, desired characteristics, and site conditions. Size and deciduous vine care will be two other specifications. If you don’t want a huge vine, choose accordingly. If you don’t want to have to prune or clean up a lot of debris either, select your plant with care. You may want a vine that attracts birds, flowers, or provides you with fruit. Most plants need well-draining soil that is slightly acidic and has plenty of organic matter. For those that will need something on which to cling, install support early in the plant’s growth. This might be a trellis, arbor, pergola, or some other erect frame.
Deciduous Vine Varieties
Growing deciduous vines to maturity depends upon taking care of that specific plant’s needs. Some need consistent water, while others are content to wait for natural precipitation. Check fertilizing needs, pest and disease issues, as well as pruning requirements. For the latter, for instance, clematis vines have three distinct pruning classes. Note yours or you may sacrifice flowers the next year by pruning at the wrong time. Some of the more exciting vine choices are:
Dutchman’s PipeClimbing HydrangeaTrumpet CreeperWisteriaVirginia CreeperKiwi VineJasmineCrimson Glory VinePassionflower
