Climbing plants are a fantastic addition to any garden, offering both aesthetic appeal and practical benefits. Whether you're looking to add a splash of colour to your outdoor space, create a natural privacy screen, or cover unsightly structures, fast-growing climbing plants are the way to go. Australia's diverse climate allows for a wide variety of climbing plants that thrive in different conditions. Here, we'll explore some of the best options, their growth rates, ideal planting times, and specific needs.

Why Choose Climbing Plants?

Climbing plants offer numerous advantages. Aesthetically, they can transform bland walls and fences into lush green canvases, creating vertical interest and enhancing the overall beauty of your garden. They can also provide excellent privacy, making them ideal for creating secluded areas or blocking neighbours' views. Additionally, many climbing plants attract beneficial wildlife, such as birds and butterflies, contributing to a vibrant garden ecosystem.

Top Fast-Growing Climbing Plants

Mandevilla (Mandevilla spp.)

• Growth Rate: Mandevilla is known for its vigorous growth, reaching up to 3 meters (10 feet) in a single season.
• Best For: Perfect for trellises, arbours, and fences, providing a stunning display of trumpet-shaped flowers in shades of pink, red, and white.
• Sun/Shade: Prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade.
• When to Plant: Plant in spring after the last frost for the best results.

Passionfruit Vine (Passiflora edulis)

• Growth Rate: This fast grower can reach heights of up to 4 meters (13 feet) in one growing season.
• Best For: Ideal for fences and pergolas, providing beautiful flowers and delicious fruit.
• Sun/Shade: Thrives in full sun but can tolerate light shade.
• When to Plant: Plant in spring or early summer for optimal growth.

Clematis (Clematis spp.)

• Growth Rate: Depending on the variety, clematis can grow rapidly, with some types reaching 2-3 meters (6-10 feet) in a single season.
• Best For: Perfect for adding colour and texture to fences and trellises.
• Sun/Shade: Most varieties prefer full sun to partial shade.
• When to Plant: Plant in early spring or autumn for the best results.

Wisteria (Wisteria spp.)

• Growth Rate: Wisteria can grow up to 3 meters (10 feet) in a year when conditions are ideal.
• Best For: Stunning on pergolas or as a focal point in a garden due to its cascading clusters of purple flowers.
• Sun/Shade: Prefers full sun for the best flowering.
• When to Plant: Plant in spring or autumn.

Honeysuckle (Lonicera spp.)

• Growth Rate: Honeysuckle can grow up to 2-3 meters (6-10 feet) annually.
• Best For: Excellent for attracting pollinators and covering fences or trellises.
• Sun/Shade: Grows best in full sun but will tolerate partial shade.
• When to Plant: Best planted in spring or autumn.

Planting Tips

When planting fast-growing climbing plants, consider the following tips to ensure successful growth:

• Soil Preparation: Choose well-draining soil rich in organic matter. If planting in poor soil, amend it with compost.
• Support Structures: Ensure you have a solid support structure in place for the vines to climb, such as a trellis, fence, or pergola.
• Watering Needs: Newly planted climbing plants require consistent moisture until established. Once mature, many varieties are quite drought-tolerant.
• Pruning: Regular pruning will help maintain the shape and encourage bushier growth. Remove dead or unhealthy stems to promote airflow.

Keen to read on? Check out this blog on 8 plants that make your garden a tropical paradise.