How to Train Vines on Brick

Training vines to grow on brick is a relatively simple task.

Vines work well to obscure or enhance structures near your garden, and few materials provide a more stable surface for climbing vines than brick. With its many nooks and crannies, brick holds the clinging tendrils of species such as Boston ivy, climbing hydrangea, and Virginia creeper with ease. Although most vines will naturally find a way to climb structures, some require a little bit of training. Training vines to grow on brick is a simple task, but it must be done soon after planting the vine to direct its growth as it matures.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Garden tape

Instructions

1. Measure 4 to 6 inches out from the base of the brick wall. Dig a planting hole for the vine measuring twice the volume of the original planting container. Plant the vine in the hole.

2. Allow the vine to establish for approximately one week before you begin training. Wait until the stems and foliage revive.

3. Gently pull the stems toward the brick wall. Fan out the stems to cover as much of the brick wall as possible. Affix the stems to the brick every 6 inches using 2-inch pieces of garden tape.

4. Water the vine and provide fertilizer in accordance with the needs of the species. Allow the vines to grow without further interference until they appear to be taking hold of the bricks. Check for small, sucker-like pads in vines such as Virginia creeper and Boston ivy, or small clinging rootlets in species such as English ivy.

5. Carefully remove the garden tape once the vine appears to be firmly affixed to the bricks. Gently peel off the tape without yanking or tearing the stems.

6. Prune the tips of the vines to maintain a clearance around any windows, vents, or doors in the brick wall.

References

• Brooklyn Botanic Garden; Using Vines in the Garden; Karen Davis Cutler; April 1999
• University of Missouri Extension; Selecting Landscape Plants: Ornamental Vines; Ray R. Rothenberger; January 2001