Climbing plants can add some natural beauty to your fence.
Despite their functional applications, some fences are, admittedly, lacking in the beauty department. If you don’t have an ornamental fence, covering your fencing in plants is an inexpensive way to add back some natural beauty to your backyard. Here are a few things to consider when growing plants over your fence.
Fence Unfriendly Vines
You should avoid fast-growing, woody vines and invasive species when planting around your fence. Though hydrangea and English Ivy are beautiful, they will destroy your fence if they come near. Woody vines are a favorite among gardeners, but when they grow over a wood fence’s surface they will trap moisture. This will cause fungus, bugs or other hazards to wreak havoc on your fence. Woody vines can also get between the slats of your fence and create breakage in existing cracks.
Invasive Species
All of the problems that come with growing woody vines are compounded by invasive species. Invasive species grow rapidly and take over an area relentlessly. If they aren’t dealt with quickly, species like chocolate vine, English ivy, wintercreeper, and Japanese honeysuckle can severely damage the environment and appearance of your outdoor space. Often times the only way to get rid of an invasive species is through a series of controlled burns and vine-killing chemicals, which can also damage your surrounding fauna.
Fence-Friendly Vines
Alumunum and vinyl fences respond well to most types of vines due to their durability. The safest vines for wood fences are annual, herbaceous (non-woody) vines. Because the stems of these vines can wrap around your fence they won’t cause structure damage to the wood. These kinds of vines can be guided to grow around your fence posts and along the upper support beams — ensuring that they stay away from your fence’s most vulnerable slats. These vines, however, should still be removed at the end of a growing season.
Security and Fencing Solutions from Hercules Custom Iron
Hercules Custom Iron is here to help. By working with professionals, you can ensure you end up with the right fence contractor for the job and the right fence for your home. That’s where Hercules Custom Iron comes in. For more information and to learn how we can meet your custom fencing needs, contact Hercules Custom Iron online or giving us a call at 1-800-331-2590. We will ensure your investment serves your family for years to come! For updates and to see projects we’re working on, visit us on Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube, Google+, and Pinterest. 1
