Hello
I was advised that planting an additional 2 climbing hydrangea vines into the back flower bed of my southern-facing tree-shaded back garden (see image attached) would fill the beds and offer good coverage making the fencing not so obvious as well as offer beautiful aesthetic interest all year round for my garden.
I was wondering what type of vine would be appropriate as appreciate there are different types within this category. I am looking for something that gives a beautiful english country garden cottage look and is delicate and ethereal! Would be great to get advice on the options available.
I have attached a picture of our back yard flower bed so you can see.
Thank you for reaching out to the Toronto Master Gardeners!
I do not see the photo you uploaded, but I don’t think it’s necessary to respond to your question. Climbing hydrangeas (Hydrangea anomala) are a fantastic choice for achieving a beautiful English country garden cottage look with delicate and ethereal qualities.
Assuming that you live in Toronto, climbing hydrangeas are hardy to this zone (but you can check your zone here to double-check) – you may need some winter protection while it establishes. Your shady garden sounds like a great option to grow one! Their spread can vary, so keep that in mind for how many you plant to fill your space. Here are some varieties that you might consider:
Common Climbing Hydrangea (Hydrangea anomala subsp. Petiolaris): This is the common climbing hydrangea and is considered hardy and easy to grow. It’s slow growing but vigorous when established, and has year-round interest. It has white flat-topped flower clusters from spring to early summer, and can spread ~5-6 feet. Ensure you have a sturdy fence.
‘Miranda’: (Hydrangea anomala subsp. petiolaris ‘Miranda’) is similar to the above, but is a variegated form of the subspecies, featuring heart-shaped green leaves with yellow margins.
https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=256580
‘Moonlight’/Japanese Hydrangea Vine (Hydrangea hydrangeoides ‘Moonlight’) With its blue-green foliage and creamy white flowers, ‘Moonlight’ can create an elegant look in your garden. This vine is an early summer bloomer. It can spread 5-10 feet depending on conditions.
https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/hydrangea-hydrangeoides/
There are also several native vines or climbers that you could consider, such as Wild Clematis, Virginia Creeper or Wild Grape.
https://wildseedproject.net/2016/12/growing-vertical-native-vines-climbing-plants-fences-trellis-walls/ (link is from Maine, but many can be grown here too).
Whichever vine you choose, remember to keep it well watered until established.
Good luck planting!