What Vine Should I Plant?

Question

Hello. My name is Moira Green and I’m asking for advice about what kind of vine to plant to grow over a new pergola. I’ve been reading (especially on your web site) about the pros and cons of various vines and am having difficulty making a decision. I live in the state of Washington. The patio where the vine will be growing gets lots of sun and is very hot in the summer. I will be out there with my dog and cat so I can’t have anything that’s toxic. I’d like something that will involve the least mess (debris, sheddings) possible and also the least maintenance because I have chronic back pain which is exacerbated by certain kinds of physical activity. I’ve read about some vines being very difficult to control, taking over everything nearby, and growing to unmanageable proportions — of course I don’t want that. Last but not least, I’d rather not have something that tends to attract pests like wasps and aphids. I’m willing to forgo things like fragrance and appearance if it means less work. Would you have a suggestion? I’ll probably be planting two vines side by side. Thanks for any help you can give — Moira Green [e-mail]

Answer 1

Choosing a low maintenance climbing vine is not an easy feat. I have come to the conclusion that vines are not the best idea for a pergola because they need pruning and thinning each year, sometimes twice a year for proper growth. And who wants to get on a stepladder to prune? If you don't, they become a tangled mess. Also, most of the flowering vines will attract bees and wasps. To avoid pruning, you can opt for an annual vine, but then you have to replant each year (unless it reseeds) and wait most of the summer for any coverage.

These are our articles for zone 8 vines but they all need pruning.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/gardening-by-zone/zone-8/zone-8-vertical-gardens.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/garden-how-to/gardening-by-zone/zone-8/vines-for-zone-8.htm