The Care & Feeding of Honeysuckle

Honeysuckle in bloom.

Honeysuckle vines are part of the genus Lonicera, which includes 180 different species of climbers. As a woody, twining vine, honeysuckle grows 10 to 20 feet tall and produces fragrant, orange-to-yellow, two-lipped flowers that appear in mid-spring. Following the flowers are the small, orange-to-red berries that appear in late summer and are loved by birds.

General Care

Honeysuckle vines grow and flower best in full sun, although they may be planted in partially shaded areas. They require well-drained, nutrient-rich soil. Feed honeysuckle with a complete fertilizer in early spring, before new growth begins. Keep the vine moist until established. Once it roots, a weekly watering is ideal, especially during hot summer months.

Pruning

Honeysuckle vines have a rapid rate of growth. Prune the vines in their dormant season, typically from February to May, to keep them tidy. Cut back all dead or diseased vines to the healthy wood. Old, mature stems on honeysuckle vines should be cut back to one-third or more.

Uses

Honeysuckle vines may be trained to creep along arbors, garden walls and fences, and they also may be used as a ground cover in naturalized areas. The flowers of honeysuckle attracts hummingbirds and butterflies.

References

• Missouri Botanical Garden: Honeysuckle
• Texas A&M AgriLife Extension: Proper Pruning Techniques