Most homeowners believe that a well-maintained yard is important for a home’s resale value.1
But what if your yard is surrounded by an unsightly chain link fence? Don’t worry, there’s a simple solution: climbing plants.
By training vines to weave their way up and through the fence, you can turn that plain metal eyesore into a stunning living wall. Here’s how to do it in just 8 steps.
1. Choose the Right Plants
Selecting plants that thrive in your climate is crucial for a successful vertical garden. For chain-link fences, opt for fast-growing, lightweight climbers such as:
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- Clematis: This colorful flowering vine comes in over 300 varieties and thrives in USDA zones 4-9.
- Jasmine: With its fragrant white flowers and evergreen foliage, jasmine is a classic choice for USDA zones 7-10.
- Passionflower: Native to the southeastern U.S., this exotic-looking vine produces unique purple flowers in USDA zones 5-9.
2. Prepare the Soil
Before planting, ensure your soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter. Mix in a 2-inch layer of compost to a depth of 8-12 inches. If your soil is heavy clay, consider building raised beds or mounds to improve drainage.
3. Install Support Wires
While chain-link fences provide some support, adding horizontal wires will encourage your plants to climb evenly. Use 16-gauge galvanized steel wire and attach it to the fence posts every 12 inches using wire ties.
4. Plant at the Right Time
Spring is the ideal time to plant most climbers, as it allows them to establish roots before the hot summer months. Wait until the risk of frost has passed in your area, typically after April 15th in most parts of the U.S.
5. Space Plants Properly
To ensure your plants have room to grow, space them 3-4 feet apart for small to medium varieties and 6-8 feet apart for larger ones. Plant them about 6 inches away from the base of the fence.
6. Water Consistently
Consistent moisture is key for establishing young plants. Water deeply and regularly, aiming for 1 inch of water per week, including rainfall. Mulch around the base of the plants with a 2-inch layer of organic material to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
7. Train & Prune
As your plants grow, gently guide them towards the support wires and weave them through the fence. Prune regularly to maintain shape and encourage bushiness. Most climbers benefit from a hard pruning in late winter or early spring.
8. Fertilize & Maintain
Feed your plants with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and summer months. Monitor for pests and diseases, and address any issues promptly.
With proper care, your chain-link fence will be transformed into a vertical garden paradise in no time!
Bonus Tips for a Thriving Vertical Garden
Here are some additional tips to ensure your climbing plants flourish on your chain-link fence:
- Choose plants with similar growth rates to create an even, cohesive look.
- Incorporate a variety of colors and textures for visual interest.
- Install a drip irrigation system for effortless watering during dry spells.
- Add a layer of landscape fabric behind the fence to prevent weeds from growing through.
- Regularly inspect your plants for signs of stress or disease and address issues promptly.
Once you follow these tips and the steps outlined above, you’ll be well on your way to creating a stunning vertical garden that will transform your chain-link fence into a lush, green oasis.
Source:
1. Virginia Tech
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.