Growing a plant against my cottage

[Chris wistow]

I want to grow a plant up the side of my cottage that won't ruin the render. Looking for something that will grow quickly and stays green most of the year. Ny ideas?

[David Hare-Scott]

If the plant attaches to the render then there is the likelihood of damage. So either you have a free standing plant that needs no support or you install a trellis and grow plants up it that will attach there (ie has tendrils or the stem turns about) instead of having pads (eg ivy) that stick on to the wall. These pads are a specialised root IIRC. The trellis has to be strong enough to hold the mature weight of the plant so a few twigs and a bit of chicken wire may be a disappointment. Some (eg wisteria) can be very bulky. As for quick growing beware of what you wish for. You may be setting up for a lifetime of frequent pruning if you choose something that is over vigorous.

Try buying (or borrow from the library) a book that lists garden species that has a chapter of climbers and find one that suits your climate and requirements. Picking one that looks nice but is a bad fit for your climate will be another disappointment.

David

[Farm1]

I'ts deciduous but I'd consider Hydrangea petiolaris.

[mkr5000]

I just bought a Dutchman's pipe ? google it -- may be just what you're looking for

[Travis]

What is a render?

[David Hare-Scott]

Render is a skin applied to brick or block work usually made of cement or plaster.

D

[Billy]

noun a first coat of plaster applied to a brick or stone surface.

[John McGaw]

If you live in a damp climate, and I very much suspect that you do, then any plant directly against the house is likely to trap moisture and promote mildew. Even worse, the moisture can attract insects which might do nasty things to the home's structure. Just something to keep in mind.

[Travis]

Thanks.

[Travis]