annual vine

(Question)

Is there an annual vine the is about 4 to 6 feet in height, that grows in part shade, and is good for bees and butterflies.
I was thinking of sweet pea, even if the time of year makes it possibly too hot now.
I tried kentucky wonder bean, but it seems to be too shady.

(Answer)

Thank you for contacting Toronto Master Gardeners.

It is so important to match the plant with the area you are planting. The Kentucky Wonder Bean does need more sun so would explain the difficulties you had with it. Sweet peas like their heads in the sun and their roots in the shade. Is this a possibility in your space?

You do not mention whether you will be planting in pots or in the ground. Depending on your situation it may change the choices available to you.

In our library I found two articles for you that go into great detail about annuals and annual vines. Depending on the space you have the solution maybe to use a combination of annuals and annual vines. This may allow you to cover the space you have and also attract pollinators. Doing both with one plant may be difficult.

https://www.torontomastergardeners.ca/askagardener/annual-garden-vines/

https://www.torontomastergardeners.ca/gardeningguides/toronto-master-gardeners-guide-to-annuals-for-shade/

A visit to your local Nursery is a good place to start. Seeing what is available will help you decide on the best plan.

Good Luck.