Gardeners Urged to Plant 4 Climbing Plants Now and Watch Them Grow Immediately

Climbing plants are a game-changer for any garden, especially if you’re a beginner looking to add instant impact with minimal space. These plants grow vertically, transforming bare walls, fences, pergolas, or trellises into lush, vibrant green masterpieces in just weeks. If you’re eager to see quick results and want plants that are easy to care for, now is the perfect time to plant some of the fastest-growing climbers.

In this post, we’ll introduce you to four climbing plants that grow rapidly and thrive with simple care, along with practical tips on planting, supporting, and training them so you can watch your garden come alive immediately.

Why Choose Climbing Plants for Your Garden?

Climbing plants are a fantastic option for gardeners of all levels, but especially beginners, because they:

• Add vertical interest without needing much ground space
• Cover unsightly fences, walls, or structures with attractive greenery
• Create natural privacy screens or cozy green backdrops
• Bring height and dimension to small or urban gardens
• Attract wildlife by providing shelter and food
• Offer colorful flowers and interesting foliage for season-long appeal

If your garden feels empty or you want to make the most of vertical spaces, climbing plants can transform your outdoor area quickly and beautifully.

Discover the Top 20 Plants Perfect for Pots and Containers for more ways to maximize your garden space.

Four Climbing Plants to Plant Now for Fast Growth

1. Hops (Humulus lupulus)

Why plant hops?
Hops are one of the fastest-growing climbing plants available. Under ideal conditions, they can grow over 10 feet in just a few weeks — sometimes nearly a foot per day! Perfect for covering pergolas or trellises, hops thrive in full sun and well-draining soil.

Key Features:

• Perennial vine that dies back in winter and regrows vigorously each spring
• Bright green, textured leaves that fill spaces quickly
• Dual purpose: ornamental and home brewing (for those interested!)
• Hardy in USDA zones 3 to 8

Planting and Care Tips:

• Soak the root ball in water before planting to boost root development
• Plant in spring after the last frost in a sunny, fertile spot
• Provide a strong trellis or wire frame for support
• Water regularly, especially during dry periods
• Prune in late winter to encourage fresh growth

For more flower power, see How to Grow Lavender Successfully and add fragrance to your garden.

2. Hardy Kiwi (Actinidia arguta)

Why plant hardy kiwi?
This fast-growing perennial vine can reach 10 to 20 feet in one growing season. It has attractive tear-shaped leaves and quickly covers fences or walls, adding lush greenery and even producing small edible kiwis.

Key Features:

• Hardy to USDA zone 4 and above
• Gorgeous foliage, with some variegated varieties for extra color
• Produces small, tasty kiwi fruits (requires planting both male and female plants)

Planting and Care Tips:

• Choose a sunny spot with well-draining, fertile soil
• Plant in early spring and water thoroughly to establish roots
• Install a sturdy support structure like a trellis or arbor before planting
• Train shoots by loosely tying them until they start clinging by themselves
• Feed with a balanced fertilizer during the growing season

3. Nasturtium

Why plant nasturtium?
Nasturtiums are quick-growing annual climbers that sprout fast — often germinating within a week — and can climb up to 10 feet in one season. They’re easy to grow in garden beds or containers and offer vibrant flowers with edible leaves.

Key Features:

• Bright orange, red, or yellow flowers that attract pollinators
• Edible flowers and leaves with a peppery flavor
• Thrives in full sun and well-drained soil
• Low-cost, beginner-friendly option for instant garden color

Planting and Care Tips:

• Sow seeds directly outdoors after the last frost, or start indoors 4-6 weeks prior
• Provide a trellis or other support for climbing varieties
• Water moderately; nasturtiums prefer slightly dry conditions over soggy soil
• Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming

4. Morning Glory

Why plant morning glory?
Morning glory is a classic annual climber famed for its rapid growth and striking trumpet-shaped flowers. It can reach 10 feet or more during a single growing season, making it ideal for quickly covering fences or garden structures.

Key Features:

• Prefers warm soil and full sun
• Flowers open in the morning and fade by afternoon
• Perfect for quickly adding seasonal color and privacy

Planting and Care Tips:

• Sow seeds directly outdoors in late spring or soak overnight to improve germination
• Use sturdy trellis, netting, or wire for support
• Water regularly but avoid waterlogging
• Pinch back young shoots to promote bushier growth and more flowers

Practical Tips for Growing Climbing Plants Successfully

Choosing the Right Location and Support

• Sunlight: Most fast-growing climbers need full sun (at least 6 hours per day) for vigorous growth. Always check the sunlight requirements for each plant.
• Soil: Ensure your soil is well-draining and rich in organic matter. Amending soil with compost or well-rotted manure improves fertility and moisture retention.
• Support: Install supports such as trellises, obelisks, arches, or wires before planting to avoid disturbing roots later. Make sure supports are strong enough to hold mature plants.

Thinking about raised beds for your climbers? Explore The Benefits of Growing Strawberries in Raised Beds and How to Build a DIY Raised Garden Bed for inspiration and step-by-step guides.

Planting Step-by-Step

1. Prepare the soil: Dig a hole twice as wide and as deep as the root ball. Mix in organic matter for added nutrients.
2. Soak the roots: If planting bare-root or container-grown plants, soak the roots or root ball in water for a few hours before planting.
3. Plant properly: Place the plant at the same depth it was growing in its pot. Position it slightly angled toward the support for easier training.
4. Backfill and water: Fill the hole with soil, firm gently to remove air pockets, and water deeply to help settle the roots.

Training and Maintenance

• Training: Tie young shoots loosely to supports using soft garden twine or plant ties. As the plants mature, many will cling naturally.
• Watering: Keep soil consistently moist, especially during dry spells, but avoid waterlogging which can cause root rot.
• Feeding: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and again mid-season to boost growth and flowering.
• Pruning: Remove dead, damaged, or overcrowded stems annually to maintain health and encourage vigorous new growth.

Not sure about your soil?

Common Challenges and How to Overcome Them

• Slow establishment: Ensure regular watering after planting and mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Weak support structures: Invest in strong, stable supports to withstand wind and the weight of mature climbers.
• Pests and diseases: Watch for common issues like aphids, powdery mildew, or fungal diseases. Use organic insecticidal soap or fungicides promptly if needed.
• Overgrowth: Regular pruning keeps climbers neat and prevents them from overwhelming nearby plants or structures.

Conclusion

For beginner gardeners wanting fast, eye-catching results, planting climbing plants like hops, hardy kiwi, nasturtium, and morning glory right now is a fantastic way to add vertical beauty and lush greenery to your garden. These plants grow quickly, are relatively low maintenance, and provide stunning flowers or foliage that will transform your garden space in weeks.

By choosing the right location, providing sturdy support, and following simple planting and care steps, you’ll enjoy the instant gratification of a flourishing, climbing garden. Start planting today and watch your garden grow upward — impressively and almost immediately!