1. Climbers are beautiful
With an incredible range of stunning flowers and attractive leaves, climbers have a charm all of their own. Whether you go for exotic beauties like the trumpet vine (Campsis), passion flowers, or reliable old favourites such as Virginia creeper which elegantly drapes its foliage about and turns lipstick-red in autumn, there’s a climber to suit every garden and every gardener’s taste.
Some climbers have amazing fragrance as well and, planted near a path or patio, can be delightful when you're gardening or enjoying a stroll around it.
2. They make your garden bigger
Increase your garden’s surface area by growing up! In a small garden surrounded by fences you could effectively double the size of your plot by planting climbers. And don’t forget, this doesn’t just mean flowers – if you’d like to grow your own but feel like you’re short on space, try kiwis, blackberries, grapes or squashes over an archway rather than taking up lots of space in your veg patch. You can also add an extra dimension to planting by growing climbers through other plants or each other.
3. They're great for wildlife
Climbers can provide fantastic resources for garden wildlife. Their flowers can support bees and butterflies, their fruits can attract birds, and perhaps best of all, they provide sheltered habitats for all manner of creatures, especially birds. Ivy is a star plant here – providing flowers, fruit and ample nesting spots.
4. They provide privacy
Climbers are useful for creating privacy and screening eyesores, such as hiding an ugly shed or outbuilding. Use a self-clinging climber like climbing hydrangea or trumpet vine (Campsis) for a super easy way to do this.
5. They're good for the environment
Climbers provide a number of 'ecosystem services' – improving the environment both for people and for wildlife. Their leaves help combat pollution and will insulate houses and sheds, helping them stay cooler in summer and warmer in winter. Even if you only have a very narrow bed next to the house, planting a climber can have a huge positive impact.