Climbers

Climbers are one of the most versatile groups of plants, and they're perfect if you've crammed every inch of space on the ground with green beauties. Green the pergola with a flowering climber or hide that unattractive shed with a pretty vine. If you are looking for the most beautiful climbing plants, you've come to the right place. At our plant centre and nursery in Limerick, you'll find many climbing plants in all shapes, sizes and colours. The best known are the climbing rose, Honeysuckle, passionflower, Clematis and Hedera, but there are many other exceptional climbers. Flowering, fragrant, self-adhesive and fast-growing: what kind of climber are you looking for? Learn more about climbing plants and discover our favourites.

Multifunctional climbing plants

Double your planting space by looking up! Climbing plants have the gift of turning some dull outdoor space into a green sanctuary. They are very versatile and multifunctional since they're both beautiful ánd practical. Try planting them next to the posts of a gazebo and let them grow sky-high for a particularly stunning effect. Many people use climbing plants as a fence, especially in combination with wire mesh. In that sense, climbers can help you create a sheltered, shady spot for privacy. 

Trees & shrubs


 

Self-adhesive or twining climbers

When purchasing, pay attention to whether the plant is self-adhesive or not. Self-adhesive vines fix themselves to a wall or rack with aerial roots or adhesive pads. Twining varieties might need some support with, for example, wires or sticks. Keep in mind that some self-clinging varieties are fast-growing, and you will need to keep an eye on them to prevent the climbers from becoming invasive.

Taking care of climbing plants

Plants are like people; they're all very different regarding their looks and needs. It's helpful to determine where you want to plant your new favourite green friend. For example, the Hedera helix doesn't mind being planted in a shady spot, while the Clematis requires a more sunny spot. In addition to the location, the care of each climbing plant is slightly different. Certain climbers can use a good pruning once in a while, such as Honeysuckle or Wisteria, but not all plants need to be pruned. You can always prune to rejuvenate the plant or ensure that it does not become too heavy. Then carefully remove the old twigs with sharp pruning shears.

Soil & fertilisers


 

Our top 3 favourite climbing plants

We would love to inspire by shining a light on a few of our favourite climbers that can take your garden to a more exciting level. 
  1. Clematis
  2. Star jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides)
  3. Honeysuckle

Clematis: an eyecatching climber

Are you looking for a climbing plant with the most beautifully coloured flowers? Then the Clematis is perfect for you. This climber does very well in the sun but also the shade. You can plant the Clematis wherever you want. Because of this and its high ornamental value, this climber is a very popular one. Furthermore, the Clematis is hardy, and it can grow up to about 2.5 meters high. Clematis species are usually classified into three main categories: early bloomers, summer bloomers and late bloomers. Go for a mix of these three if you want to enjoy the floral splendour of the Clematis for a long time. And not only you will enjoy its beauty, but butterflies, bees and other beneficial insects also love this climber. Clematis come in all shapes and sizes, from the tiny starry flowers of 'Pixie' to prominent, blowsy 'Rouge Cardinal'. Winter-flowering clematis has pretty seedheads, while Clematis montana is a froth of flowers in April.

Star jasmine: a climbing plant with a lovely scent

This gorgeous climber quickly covers the uprights of pergolas and arches with glossy evergreen leaves and white flowers. In addition to its beautiful white, star-shaped flowers, the popular jasmine has a delicious scent that can be recognised by thousands. It's a fantastic experience for the senses when the flower buds open in May! The Trachelospermum jasminoides is evergreen, but it's best to protect it against frost in winter. The climber likes a sheltered spot in the sun and needs to get a little support when climbing.

We're a sucker for Honeysuckle

There are many different types of Honeysuckle or Lonicera, of which there are evergreen and deciduous species. The plant has a meandering growth and is well able to cover an entire wall, pergola or fence. Honeysuckle is a climbing plant that can completely suffocate a young tree, so make sure to keep its 'claws' away from other plants and trees. The more sun the bush catches, the more flowers will appear. The flowers have a strong scent and are therefore very attractive to butterflies. Honeysuckles are the perfect backdrop to a cottage garden, smothered in tubular flowers all summer and filling the garden with scent and punch-drunk bumblebees.

Buy your climbing plants from Ahern in Limerick

Green your outdoor space with our climbers! Whether you have a large piece of land or want to green a compact terrace, a climbing plant is always a good idea. Would you like to know more about our range of climbing plants? Visit the Ahern Plant Centre or contact us. Our employees are happy to help you make the most of your garden.