These climbing flowers are easy to grow and wonderous to watch as they scale trellises, fences, posts and other structures in your garden. This variety-pack gives you a chance to try out all our favourites at once. You’ll grow scarlet runner beans that are edible, nasturtiums that attract pollinators, sweet peas that look great in a vase, and morning glories that climb to glorious heights. Your garden will be an explosion of flowers and colours!
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Nasturtium - Tall Climbing
Height 2m (6-7’)
Let these edible, red, yellow, and orange flowers flow across the ground or train them vertically by tying them to something. Tolerant of drought and pour soil, they’re perfect for beginners. Great for hanging baskets too!
Planting and Germination - Tall climbing nasturtiums are typically grown as annual plants, meaning they complete their life cycle in one season. They are usually sown directly in the ground in late spring or early summer, once all danger of frost has passed. This timing ensures that the plants have the best chance of thriving in warm weather. Sow the seeds about 3cm (1 inch) deep and 8cm (3”) apart. Water the soil gently to keep it moist but not waterlogged. Germination typically occurs within 7-14 days, depending on the temperature and moisture levels. Once the seeds have germinated, thin the seedlings to ensure proper spacing for healthy growth.
Climbing and Training - As the name suggests, tall climbing nasturtiums have a natural tendency to climb and scramble. To support their growth and create an attractive display, provide them with a trellis, arbor, or other suitable support structure. You can also encourage them to climb on fences, walls, or other vertical surfaces. When the plants are young, gently guide their stems towards the support structure. Use loose ties or soft twine to secure the stems without damaging them. As the plants grow, they will use their leaf-stem tendrils to cling to the support and continue climbing.
Care and Maintenance - Tall climbing nasturtiums are relatively low-maintenance plants. Here are some tips to keep them healthy and thriving:
1. Watering: These plants prefer moderate moisture levels, so water them regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. Avoid overwatering, as it can lead to root rot.
2. Fertilization: Nasturtiums are not heavy feeders and can thrive in average garden soil. However, if your soil is poor or lacks nutrients, you can apply a balanced fertilizer once or twice during the growing season.
3. Pruning (Optional): Trailing varieties of nasturtiums are prone to legginess. To maintain a compact and bush growth habit, prune the longest stems back by 6 to 12 inches in mid-summer and again in late summer. Also, remove any browning leaves and flowers by pinching them off at the base.
4. Harvesting Seeds and Blooms: Nasturtiums produce attractive edible flowers and seeds. Harvest the flowers when they are fully open and use them in salads, garnishes, or as a colorful addition to your dishes. Allow some flowers to mature, and you can collect the seeds for replanting next season.
Companion Planting:
Tomatoes - Nasturtiums act as a natural pest deterrent, repelling aphids, whiteflies, and other insects that commonly attack tomatoes. The bright flowers of the nasturtiums can also attract pollinators, such as bees, which aid in tomato pollination. Plant nasturtiums around the base of tomato plants or let them climb up trellises alongside tomatoes for a beautiful and beneficial combination.
Cucumbers - Attract beneficial insects like bees and predatory wasps, which help pollinate the cucumber flowers and control pests, such as cucumber beetles. Additionally, the sprawling growth habit of cucumbers can benefit from the shade provided by the nasturtium's broad leaves.
Beans - Nasturtiums provide natural ground cover, shading the soil and helping to retain moisture, which can benefit the shallow roots of beans. In return, the beans' nitrogen-fixing abilities can improve the nutrient content of the soil, benefiting the nasturtiums. Plant nasturtiums along the edges of bean rows or let them climb up trellises alongside beans to create an attractive and symbiotic pairing.
Herbs - Nasturtiums can also be planted alongside various herbs to enhance garden health. For example, they can help repel pests like aphids and whiteflies that commonly attack herbs such as basil, parsley, and dill.
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Morning Glory - Heavenly Blue
Height: (3.6m/12')
Lots and lots of big blue flowers! These plants get tall…really tall. Morning glories are stunning flowering vines that can add a touch of beauty and elegance to any garden or outdoor space. Among the various morning glory varieties, one that stands out for its captivating blue flowers is the Heavenly Blue Morning Glory. With its vibrant color and delicate blooms, this plant is a popular choice for gardeners around the world.
Selecting the Right Location - Morning glories thrive in full sun, so choose a sunny spot in your garden that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight each day. They also prefer well-draining soil, so make sure the soil in your chosen location is loose and fertile.
Preparing the Soil - Morning glories are not very demanding when it comes to soil, but they do prefer soil that is rich in organic matter. Before planting, amend the soil with compost or well-rotted manure to improve its fertility and drainage.
Sowing the Seeds - Heavenly Blue Morning Glory can be grown either from seeds or transplants. If you choose to sow seeds directly into the ground, wait until after the last frost in your area. Make small holes in the soil, about 5mm (¼”) deep, and space them about15cm (6”) inches apart. Drop one or two seeds into each hole and cover them with soil.
Watering - Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid overwatering. Water the plants deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions. It's important not to let the soil dry out completely, especially during hot and dry spells.
Providing Support - Height 3.6m (12'). Morning glories are climbing vines, so they need support to grow vertically. Install a trellis, fence, or any other structure that can provide a sturdy framework for the vines to climb. As the plants grow, gently guide them towards the support and secure them with ties if necessary.
Maintenance - Pinch off the tips of the plants when they start to climb to encourage branching.
Fertilizing - Heavenly Blue Morning Glory doesn't require heavy fertilization but can benefit from a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season. Use a slow-release fertilizer or organic options to provide essential nutrients without overstimulating growth.
Pests and Diseases - Morning glories are generally resistant to most pests and diseases. However, keep an eye out for common garden pests like aphids, spider mites, and slugs.
Companion Planting
Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum majus) - Nasturtiums are not only beautiful flowers but also great companions for Heavenly Blue Morning Glory. They repel aphids and whiteflies, which are common pests that can affect the health of morning glory vines. Additionally, nasturtiums serve as a sacrificial plant, attracting pests away from the morning glories.
Marigolds - Marigolds are known for their ability to repel nematodes, which can damage the roots of many plants, including morning glories. By planting marigolds near your Heavenly Blue Morning Glory, you can help protect the roots from these harmful pests. Marigolds also attract beneficial insects like ladybugs, which feed on aphids and other garden pests.
Borage - Borage is an excellent companion plant for Heavenly Blue Morning Glory due to its attractive blue flowers and its ability to attract pollinators. Bees are particularly fond of borage flowers, and having them around can increase pollination rates for your morning glories, resulting in better fruit set and seed production.
Climbing Roses - If you want to create a visually stunning combination in your garden, consider planting climbing roses alongside Heavenly Blue Morning Glory. The roses provide a vertical structure for the morning glory vines to climb, creating a picturesque display of contrasting colors and textures. Additionally, the roses' thorns can deter animals and pests from damaging the morning glory vines.
Sunflowers - Sunflowers are not only sun-loving companions for Heavenly Blue Morning Glory, but they also provide shade and support for the morning glory vines. The tall stalks of sunflowers can act as a natural trellis, helping the morning glories reach higher heights. This combination creates a visually striking garden display with the blue morning glory flowers contrasting against the bright yellow sunflower blooms.
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Sweet Pea Mix
Height 90-150cm (3-5’)
Blue, red, white, pink, purple, yes! These self-twining vines will climb trellises, hang from baskets AND make great cut flowers. Remove dead flowers to encourage continuous blooming.
Preparing the Soil - Sweet peas thrive in well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. Follow these steps to prepare the soil for planting:
1. Choose a Sunny Location: Sweet peas prefer a sunny spot in your garden, receiving at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.
2. Loosen the Soil: Use a garden fork or tiller to loosen the soil to a depth of around 30cm (12 inches). This will improve drainage and allow the roots to penetrate easily.
3. Add Organic Matter: Incorporate organic matter, such as compost or well-rotted manure, into the soil to improve its fertility and moisture retention.
Planting Sweet Peas - Now that your soil is prepared, it's time to sow your sweet pea seeds. Follow these steps for successful planting:
1. Soaking the Seeds (optional): Before sowing, soak your sweet pea seeds in water overnight. This will help soften the hard seed coat, promoting faster germination.
2. Spacing: Dig a trench that is approximately 15cm(6 inches) deep and 15cm (6 inches) wide. Space the seeds about 5cm (2 inches) apart along the trench.
3. Planting Depth: Depth: Cover the seeds with about an inch of soil, gently firming it down to ensure good seed-to-soil contact.
4. Watering: After planting, give the seeds a thorough watering. Subsequently, keep the soil evenly moist but not waterlogged during the germination period.
5. Supporting Climbing Varieties:: Install trellises or supports for the plants to climb on. This will prevent them from sprawling and ensure they grow upright.
Caring for Sweet Peas - Sweet peas require regular care to thrive and produce abundant blooms. Here are some essential care tips to keep in mind:
1. Watering: Sweet peas need consistent moisture, especially during hot and dry periods. Water deeply and regularly, ensuring the soil remains evenly moist. Avoid overhead watering to prevent fungal diseases.
2. Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plants to conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and maintain a cool root environment.
3. Fertilizing: Feed your sweet peas with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer once a month during the growing season. This will provide essential nutrients for healthy growth and abundant flowering.
4. Deadheading: Regularly remove faded flowers to encourage continuous blooming and prevent the plants from diverting energy into seed production.
5. Pest and Disease Control: Monitor your sweet peas for common pests like aphids and caterpillars.
Harvesting Sweet Peas - The reward for your hard work comes when you can finally enjoy the beautiful blooms and intoxicating fragrance of your sweet peas. Here's how to harvest them:
1. Timing: Sweet peas are best harvested in the morning when the flowers are fully open and the fragrance is at its peak.
2. Cutting Technique: Use sharp scissors or pruners
Companion Planting with Sweet Peas
1. Nasturtiums: They repel aphids, which are common pests that can damage sweet pea plants. Additionally, the vibrant flowers of nasturtiums create a beautiful contrast with the sweet pea blooms.
2. Lavender: Planting lavender near your sweet peas not only adds visual appeal but also attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies. Lavender's aromatic scent can also help deter pests.
3. Marigolds: Marigolds are known for their ability to repel pests, including nematodes and aphids. Planting marigolds alongside sweet peas can provide protection against these common garden pests.
4. Chives: Chives have natural pest-repellent properties, particularly against aphids. They also attract beneficial insects, such as hoverflies, which prey on aphids and other harmful pests.
5. Lupines: Lupines are nitrogen-fixing plants, meaning they can increase soil fertility by converting atmospheric nitrogen into a usable form. Planting lupines near sweet peas can provide them with a nutrient boost.
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Scarlet Runner Bean
Phaseolus coccineus
Family: Fabaceae
Height: 3-5m (10-16')
Another vine that is tall-tall-tall. 3-5m (10-16'). Scarlet runner beans (Phaseolus coccineus) are climbing perennial vines that produce beautiful red flowers and delicious edible beans. These beans are not only a visual delight in the garden but also a versatile addition to your culinary adventures.
Choosing the Right Location - Scarlet runner beans thrive in full sun, so it's crucial to choose a location that receives at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day. Additionally, they prefer well-drained soil with a pH level between 6.0 and 7.5. Before planting, make sure to prepare the soil by removing any weeds and adding organic matter to improve fertility and drainage.
Planting Scarlet Runner Beans - Scarlet runner beans can be started indoors or directly sown into the ground once the danger of frost has passed. If you choose to start them indoors, sow the seeds in biodegradable pots about 2 weeks before the last expected frost. Transplant the seedlings outdoors when they have reached a height of approximately 15cm (6 inches). If you prefer direct sowing, plant the seeds about 3.5cm (1½”) deep and space them 7-10cm (3-4″) apart.
Providing Adequate Support - As climbing vines, scarlet runner beans require proper support to grow and thrive. Install a trellis, fence, or teepee-like structure before planting to give the vines something to climb on. Make sure the support is sturdy enough to bear the weight of the mature plants and provides ample space for the vines to spread out.
Watering and Fertilizing - Scarlet runner beans require consistent moisture to ensure healthy growth. Keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged, throughout the growing season. Water deeply once or twice a week, depending on the weather conditions. Fertilize the plants with a balanced organic fertilizer during planting and again when the vines start to flower. Avoid using excessive nitrogen-rich fertilizers as they can promote leafy growth at the expense of bean production.
Managing Pests and Diseases - Like any other plant, scarlet runner beans are susceptible to certain pests and diseases. Some common pests that can affect these beans include aphids, bean beetles, and slugs. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of infestation and take appropriate measures such as handpicking or employing natural predators to control pests. As for diseases, scarlet runner beans can be prone to fungal infections such as powdery mildew and rust. To prevent these diseases, ensure proper air circulation around the plants by spacing them adequately
Harvesting Scarlet Runner Beans - Scarlet runner beans are generally ready for harvest 70-90 days after planting. The beans should be picked when they are still young and tender, before they become tough and stringy. Harvesting regularly promotes continued production throughout the season. To harvest the beans, simply snap or cut them off the vines.
Culinary Uses - Scarlet runner beans are highly versatile in the kitchen and can be used in various dishes. They have a rich, nutty flavor and a slightly creamy texture. These beans can be enjoyed cooked in stews, soups, salads, or as a side dish. They can also be dried for later use or ground into flour.
Companion Planting:
Radish - Radishes are fast-growing root vegetables that help break up compacted soil due to their strong root system. By planting radishes alongside scarlet runner beans, they can loosen the soil and improve drainage, which benefits the bean plants. Radishes are also known to repel certain pests like flea beetles.
Cabbage Family Plants - Plants from the cabbage family, such as broccoli, cauliflower, and kale, can provide shade and act as a natural windbreak for scarlet runner beans. These leafy vegetables, when planted close to the beans, help conserve soil moisture and create a microclimate that favors bean growth.
Herbs - Certain herbs like dill, mint, and rosemary can be beneficial companions for scarlet runner beans. Dill attracts beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings, which prey on pests that may harm the bean plants. Mint repels aphids and can serve as a living mulch, keeping the soil cool and moist. Rosemary, with its strong aroma, can deter pests like bean beetles and provide some shade for the beans.
