Virginia creeper (Parthenocissus tricuspidata) is a popular climbing plant. Thanks to its anchoring feet it quickly climbs up house walls and greens it without any growth support. Virginia creeper bears dark green leaves throughout the year. In autumn Virginia creeper decorates walls with fire-red leaves. Thanks to its big leaves it keeps houses cool at hot summer days. But where does Virginia creeper come from? How do you plant it and what should you consider before and while planting?
Virginia creeper comes from a region in Asia and feels very comfortable at sunny to half-shaded walls. The more sun it gets, the redder get its autumn wear. If the leaves of the shrub do not get any sunshine, they will not change colour that glorious. But before you garnish your house with this climbing plant you should check the wall for cracks. Shoots could get in and cause damage.
After you checked your wall, you can get ready for planting. A suitable period is between October and March. Best is to begin with one plant only because it might go in width intense and built new shoots quickly. The fast growing Virginia creeper can growth up to 20 meters high. If you still want to prick in more plants at once, you should keep a minimum distance of 2 meters. The plants are obtainable at DIY markets, garden centres or tree nurseries.
Prick in
Scoop a hole from a size of 50 centimetres in depth as well as length. Virginia creepers prefer a permeable and clayey garden soil which is slightly humid. That is why you should put some clay and water in the hole if required. Now you can prick in the plant. Fill the hole with soil and press it. If this is done, water the plant. Now you can watch how it climbs up your walls.
You should apply fertilizer en masse because an excess could hinder the wonderful formation of colours. Virginia creeper carries blue black berries in the early summer. Caution, do not eat them – they are poisonous! Just birds tolerate them and are happy to get these pea-sized fruits.
Cutting back
In late summer Virginia creeper can be cut back to work against the strong growing. The old branches can be removed and the young shoots shortened. By doing this you have a better growth control. Besides you can prevent that the bush damages gutter, shutter boxes or similar. After trimming adhesive disks could stay back at the walls. You can burn these away with the help of a gas burner. With a brush and cleaner you get rid of everything else. You should think twice where to plant Virginia creeper. It could damage your wall by reason of the adhesive disks. Despite everything, it is a true feast for the eyes.
