How to Grow Climbing Plants

1. Introduction

Climbing plants are an exciting and versatile addition to any garden. These plants have the unique ability to grow vertically, creating beautiful green walls, adding dimension to your outdoor space, or even serving as functional plantings for privacy. Growing climbing plants can be both rewarding and beneficial for your garden's overall aesthetic and health.

There are numerous benefits to incorporating climbing plants into your garden:

• Aesthetic Appeal: Climbing plants bring beauty and elegance to vertical spaces, transforming fences, trellises, or even walls into lush, green features.
• Space Efficiency: Climbing plants are perfect for small gardens or urban spaces, as they utilize vertical areas without taking up precious ground space.
• Privacy and Shade: They can create natural privacy screens, reduce wind exposure, and provide shade to cooler areas of your garden or patio.
• Wildlife Support: Many climbing plants attract pollinators, like bees and butterflies, enhancing your garden's ecosystem.
• Air Purification: Like other plants, climbing varieties help purify the air by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen.

Moreover, climbing plants come in a wide variety, with each type offering something unique for different garden environments. Whether you’re looking for a flowering vine, an evergreen climber, or a fast-growing variety to cover a large space, there is something for every gardener:

• Flowering Vines: Plants like Wisteria and Clematis offer stunning blossoms, adding color and beauty to your garden.
• Evergreen Climbers: Varieties such as English Ivy and Star Jasmine provide year-round greenery, ensuring your garden remains lush throughout the seasons.
• Fast-Growing Climbers: If you’re looking to cover a space quickly, plants like Morning Glory and Sweet Peas are ideal options.
• Tough Climbers for Harsh Environments: Some varieties, such as Hops and Passionflower, thrive in a wide range of conditions, making them excellent choices for more challenging garden areas.

No matter your gardening goals, there’s a climbing plant out there that fits perfectly into your landscape. Whether you want to create a charming garden archway, a private green retreat, or a vertical herb garden, climbing plants can meet your needs with their versatility and beauty.

2. Understanding Climbing Plants

Climbing plants are unique plants that have developed the ability to grow upwards and spread across vertical surfaces. Unlike most plants that grow horizontally from the base, climbing plants use different mechanisms to anchor themselves to structures such as trellises, fences, and walls. This ability makes them perfect for small spaces, providing vertical greenery that saves on ground area.

Climbing plants typically grow through three primary mechanisms:

• Tendrils: These are thread-like structures that wrap around supports, such as wires or garden fences. Examples of plants that use tendrils include Sweet Peas and Cucumber.
• Twining: Some climbing plants use twining stems to spiral around supports. They wrap themselves in a corkscrew fashion around anything they come into contact with. Plants like Morning Glory and Wisteria use this method.
• Clinging: Other climbing plants use adhesive pads, spiny structures, or specialized roots to cling onto supports. Common examples include English Ivy and Virginia Creeper, which can easily attach to walls or trees without needing additional support.

In addition to their unique growth mechanisms, it’s important to distinguish between climbing plants and creeping plants:

• Climbers: These plants need some form of support to grow upwards. They require trellises, fences, or other structures to help them climb. Climbers tend to have stronger stems and rely on external support for proper growth.
• Creepers: In contrast, creepers grow horizontally along the ground. While they don’t require support, they may spread over large areas and can sometimes become invasive. Examples include Ground Morning Glory and Creeping Jenny.

There are various types of climbing plants, each offering unique characteristics. Common categories include:

• Vines: These are some of the most common climbing plants. Vines can be both annual and perennial and often produce beautiful flowers or fruits. Examples include Grape Vine and Clematis.
• Shrubs: While not as common as vines, some shrubs can also climb. They have woody stems and can be trained to climb over structures. Examples include Climbing Roses and Honeysuckle.

Climbing plants play an important role in the ecosystem, providing numerous benefits:

• Wildlife Support: Climbing plants provide shelter and food for birds, insects, and small mammals, making them essential for promoting biodiversity in your garden.
• Soil Protection: Their root systems help stabilize soil and prevent erosion, particularly in sloped areas.
• Climate Regulation: Climbing plants can reduce the temperature in your garden or home by shading walls and surfaces from direct sunlight, lowering the surrounding temperature.

As climbing plants grow, they require adequate support. Without proper support structures, they may become tangled or difficult to manage. Common support types include:

• Trellises: These are ideal for smaller spaces and can be placed against walls, fences, or in pots to help guide the plant’s upward growth.
• Arbors and Pergolas: Larger structures that not only support climbing plants but also offer shaded areas for relaxation.
• Fences and Walls: Natural supports for many climbing plants, especially those that use cling mechanisms like ivy or jasmine.

3. Choosing the Right Climbing Plant for Your Garden

When selecting climbing plants for your garden, it's essential to consider a variety of factors, including your local climate, available space, and personal preferences. Choosing the right climbing plant ensures that it thrives in your environment and enhances the overall aesthetic of your garden. Below are some key considerations to help you make an informed decision:

1. Climate: Climate plays a significant role in the success of your climbing plants. Some plants are more tolerant of heat and drought, while others thrive in cooler, moist conditions. Be sure to choose plants that are suited to your region’s temperature, rainfall, and humidity levels. Consider your USDA hardiness zone to help you pick varieties that can withstand your area's climate.

2. Available Space: Assess the amount of space you have for climbing plants. For smaller areas, consider compact climbing plants or those that grow well in containers. If you have a larger space, you can opt for fast-growing or larger vines that can cover expansive walls, fences, or trellises. Understanding how much space you can dedicate to climbing plants will help you choose the right variety.

3. Personal Preferences: Do you prefer flowering climbing plants, or are you more interested in evergreen varieties that offer year-round coverage? Some people opt for fragrant plants, while others prefer plants with unique foliage or fruits. Your preferences will guide you in choosing plants that meet both aesthetic and functional goals.

Popular climbing plants to consider for your garden:

• Clematis: Known for its stunning, vibrant flowers, Clematis is a popular climbing plant that comes in many colors and varieties. It thrives in well-drained soil and full sun and requires support to grow upwards. Clematis can bloom multiple times throughout the growing season, making it a favorite for adding color and texture to your garden.
• English Ivy: A hardy evergreen climber, English Ivy is perfect for covering walls, fences, or trellises. It grows quickly and offers dense green coverage year-round. Ivy is well-suited for shaded areas but can also tolerate full sun. However, it may require regular maintenance to keep it from becoming invasive.
• Wisteria: Wisteria is a magnificent climbing plant with cascading, fragrant clusters of flowers. It requires full sun and rich, well-drained soil for optimal growth. Wisteria can be a bit more demanding in terms of space and care, as it grows rapidly and may require pruning to maintain its shape. However, its beauty and fragrance make it worth the effort.

Considerations:

• Sun Exposure: Ensure that your climbing plant receives the appropriate amount of sunlight for its needs. Some plants, like Clematis and Wisteria, need full sun for optimal growth and blooming, while others, like English Ivy, thrive in shaded areas.
• Soil Type: Climbing plants generally prefer well-drained soil, but different species have varying preferences. For example, Wisteria does well in slightly acidic, well-draining soil, while ivy is more tolerant of a wider range of soil types.
• Maintenance Needs: Some climbing plants require more attention than others. While English Ivy and Clematis are relatively low-maintenance, Wisteria may need regular pruning and careful management of its growth to avoid overwhelming other plants.

 

4. Preparing the Site for Planting

Proper site preparation is key to ensuring the success of your climbing plants. A well-prepared site provides the right environment for your plants to grow strong and healthy. This section covers important aspects of soil preparation, location selection, and preparing support structures for climbing plants.

1. Soil Preparation: The foundation of healthy climbing plants starts with soil. Poor soil can stunt growth and lead to disease. Here are some key steps to ensure the soil is in the best condition for your climbing plants:

• Soil Type: Most climbing plants prefer well-drained soil. You can improve drainage by mixing in organic matter such as compost or aged manure. For clay-heavy soils, adding sand can improve texture and promote better root growth.
• Soil pH: Different climbing plants have different pH preferences. Most climbing plants thrive in slightly acidic to neutral soil (pH 6-7), but some, like clematis, may prefer a more alkaline soil. Test your soil’s pH and amend it accordingly to suit your plant’s needs.
• Soil Fertility: Fertile soil promotes healthy plant growth. You can add a slow-release fertilizer or compost before planting to ensure your climbing plants have all the nutrients they need during the growing season.

2. Choosing the Right Location: Location is a critical factor in the health and success of your climbing plants. Here are some considerations for selecting the best site:

• Sunlight: Most climbing plants require full sun to thrive, but some varieties, like English Ivy, can tolerate partial or full shade. Be sure to research the sunlight needs of the specific plants you choose. Aim for at least 6 hours of sunlight a day for most climbing plants.
• Wind Protection: Strong winds can damage delicate climbing plants, especially those with thin or fragile stems. Choose a location that offers some protection from the wind, such as near a wall, fence, or hedge. Alternatively, consider using windbreaks like garden screens or trellises to protect your plants.
• Soil Drainage: Good drainage is essential for climbing plants. Avoid areas where water tends to collect, as this can lead to root rot. If your garden has heavy, poorly draining soil, consider planting in raised beds or using container gardening to provide better control over drainage.

3. Preparing Support Structures: Climbing plants need something to hold onto as they grow. Properly preparing trellises, fences, or other support structures is crucial for guiding the plant’s growth and keeping it healthy. Here are some tips:

• Trellises: Choose a sturdy trellis made of wood, metal, or plastic, and install it securely in the ground. Ensure the trellis is tall enough to support the full growth of your climbing plant. Position it in a place where the plant will receive enough sunlight and won’t be obstructed by other plants.
• Fences: If you’re using a fence as support, ensure it is strong enough to hold the weight of the climbing plant. Metal or wooden fences are ideal, while wire fences can be an excellent choice for plants like grapes or kiwi vines. Be sure to install the plant near the base of the fence for easy access to the structure.
• Arbors and Pergolas: If you have the space, consider adding an arbor or pergola to your garden. These structures not only provide ample support for climbing plants but also create beautiful focal points in your garden, offering shade and shelter as the plants grow over them.

5. Planting Climbing Plants

Planting climbing plants correctly is crucial for their healthy growth. Whether you're planting from seeds, cuttings, or nursery-grown plants, following the right steps ensures that your plants will have the best start in their new environment. Below is a step-by-step guide to planting climbing plants, with key considerations and methods for different planting scenarios.

1. Step-by-Step Guide to Planting Climbing Plants:

1. Prepare the Site: Before planting, ensure your site is prepared as discussed in the previous section, including soil preparation, selecting the right location, and setting up any necessary support structures like trellises or fences.
2. Dig the Hole: Dig a hole that is about twice as wide as the plant's root ball and deep enough to accommodate the roots without bending them. The hole should be slightly deeper than the root ball to ensure proper planting depth.
3. Check the Depth: Ensure that the root ball sits level with the surrounding soil surface. For climbing plants, it’s important not to bury the crown (the point where the roots meet the stem) too deeply, as this can cause rot or poor growth.
4. Place the Plant: Gently remove the plant from its pot or container, being careful not to disturb the roots. Place the plant in the hole, and fill the hole with soil, firming it gently around the roots to eliminate air pockets.
5. Water Thoroughly: After planting, water the plant thoroughly to help settle the soil and provide moisture to the roots. Keep the soil moist for the first few weeks as the plant establishes itself.
6. Apply Mulch (Optional): Adding a layer of mulch around the base of the plant helps retain moisture, regulate soil temperature, and suppress weeds. Be sure to keep mulch away from the stem to prevent rot.

2. Key Considerations:

• Spacing: Proper spacing is essential to ensure that your climbing plants have room to grow. Most climbing plants need enough space between them to avoid overcrowding, which can limit air circulation and promote disease. Refer to the specific spacing requirements for each plant variety and consider the plant's expected spread.
• Depth of Planting: As mentioned earlier, ensure that the plant is at the correct depth in the soil. Planting too deep can suffocate the roots, while planting too shallow may expose the roots to the elements and affect plant stability.
• Supporting Structures: Be sure to immediately provide support for climbing plants after planting. This could be a trellis, fence, or arbor. Gently train the plant to grow toward the support structure if necessary. This ensures the plant's growth stays upright and healthy.

3. Planting Methods for Different Climbing Plants:

• Direct Sowing: Some climbing plants, such as beans or morning glories, can be directly sown into the soil. For this method, plant seeds at the recommended depth, usually around 1-2 inches deep. Keep the soil moist until the seeds germinate, and ensure that the seedlings have access to the necessary support structure as they begin to grow.
• Nursery-Grown Plants: For established climbing plants like Clematis or Wisteria, planting nursery-grown plants is often the best method. These plants already have a well-developed root system and can be planted directly into the soil. Be sure to handle them gently during transplanting and position them properly to avoid root disturbance.
• Cuttings or Starts: Some climbing plants can be propagated through cuttings. If you are planting from cuttings, prepare the soil in the same way as for nursery-grown plants, and plant the cutting at the appropriate depth. Keep the soil consistently moist to encourage rooting.

 

6. Caring for Your Climbing Plants

Caring for climbing plants requires ongoing attention to ensure they grow healthy and strong. Regular maintenance, including watering, mulching, feeding, pruning, and pest management, is essential to support their development. This section covers general care tips and how to address common issues such as pests, diseases, and nutrient deficiencies.

1. General Care Tips:

• Watering: Climbing plants generally need regular watering, especially during dry periods. Water deeply and infrequently to encourage deep root growth. Be sure to check the soil moisture before watering to avoid overwatering, which can lead to root rot. Ensure that the plant’s roots are well-drained, as standing water can harm the plant.
• Mulching: Applying mulch around the base of your climbing plants helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and maintain a stable soil temperature. Organic mulches, such as bark or straw, break down over time and also enrich the soil. Keep mulch away from the plant’s stem to prevent moisture buildup that can cause rot.
• Feeding: Regular feeding is essential for the growth of climbing plants, especially if they’re planted in containers or poor soil. Use a balanced fertilizer during the growing season to encourage robust growth and flowering. Organic compost or slow-release fertilizers are excellent choices. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive foliage growth at the expense of flowers or fruit.

2. Pruning Climbing Plants for Optimal Growth:

• Why Prune? Pruning is important for controlling the shape, size, and health of your climbing plants. It encourages new growth, improves air circulation, and removes dead or diseased wood. Pruning also promotes better flowering in many climbing plants.
• When to Prune: The best time to prune depends on the type of climbing plant. Generally, prune deciduous plants in late winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Evergreen climbing plants may need occasional light pruning throughout the year. Always remove dead, damaged, or crossing stems to improve the plant’s structure.
• How to Prune: Use sharp, clean pruning shears to cut back the plant. Make clean cuts just above the node (the point where leaves or branches emerge). For plants like clematis, cutting back after flowering can encourage a second bloom. For others like ivy, regular light pruning may be necessary to control spread.

3. Addressing Common Problems:

• Pest Management: Climbing plants are susceptible to various pests, including aphids, caterpillars, and spider mites. Regularly inspect your plants for signs of pest damage, such as discolored leaves or webbing. To control pests, you can use organic insecticidal soap or neem oil. Beneficial insects, like ladybugs, can help manage aphids naturally.
• Nutrient Deficiencies: Yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or poor flowering may indicate nutrient deficiencies. For example, yellowing leaves can be a sign of nitrogen deficiency, while poor fruiting may indicate a lack of phosphorus. Applying a balanced fertilizer or compost can help resolve these issues. A soil test can also determine which nutrients your plants need.
• Disease Control: Climbing plants can be affected by fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew or black spot. To prevent diseases, provide proper spacing for good air circulation and avoid overhead watering, which can promote fungal growth. If disease does occur, remove affected leaves immediately and treat with an appropriate fungicide. In severe cases, you may need to cut back affected areas to prevent the spread of infection.

 

7. Training and Supporting Climbing Plants

Training and supporting climbing plants properly ensures that they grow upright and strong while maintaining their health and appearance. Using the right techniques and support structures will encourage your climbing plants to thrive and reach their full potential. This section covers effective methods for training climbing plants and discusses various support structures that can be used.

1. Techniques for Training Climbing Plants onto Supports:

• Using Ties: Tying climbing plants to their support structures is one of the most common methods. Use soft ties, such as garden twine, cloth strips, or Velcro plant ties, to gently secure the plant to the support. Be careful not to tie the plant too tightly, as this can restrict growth or damage the stems.
• Using String or Wire: For plants that need a bit more guidance, you can use string or wire to direct their growth. Attach the string or wire to a secure part of the support structure and gently loop it around the plant. This method is particularly useful for plants like clematis, which can benefit from directional support as they climb.
• Vertical Supports: For tall climbing plants like beans or cucumbers, vertical supports such as bamboo stakes or wooden poles can be used. This encourages the plants to grow upward and prevents them from spreading out uncontrollably.

2. Types of Support Structures for Climbing Plants:

• Trellises: Trellises are one of the most popular support structures for climbing plants. They come in various sizes and designs, such as wall-mounted trellises or freestanding ones, and can be made from wood, metal, or plastic. Trellises provide a sturdy base for climbing plants to latch onto and grow upward.
• Arbors: Arbors are arch-like structures that create a dramatic entrance or focal point in the garden. They offer support for climbing plants such as roses, clematis, and wisteria. Arbors can be made of wood or metal, and they provide a larger space for plants to spread out while still guiding their upward growth.
• Pergolas: Pergolas are larger structures that provide both support and shade. They are perfect for growing heavy, sprawling climbing plants like grapes or jasmine. Pergolas allow plants to climb high and spread out, creating a shaded area underneath. They work well in outdoor living spaces and garden pathways.
• Fences and Walls: Fences and walls can act as support structures for climbing plants. Using a fence or wall as a backdrop allows climbing plants to cover large areas quickly. Be sure the surface is suitable for plant attachment, and consider installing wire or netting to help plants climb easily.

3. Tips for Guiding Plants as They Grow:

• Monitor Growth: Regularly check the growth of your climbing plants and adjust the ties or support structures as needed. If the plant grows in an undesirable direction, gently guide it back to the support structure to keep it growing vertically.
• Prune Regularly: Pruning is essential for guiding the plant’s growth and maintaining its shape. Remove any lateral growth that may detract from the plant’s upward direction, especially for vines like clematis or jasmine. This will keep the plant focused on climbing, rather than spreading out.
• Encourage Vertical Growth: For plants that are less inclined to climb, such as some varieties of roses or jasmine, manually guide them by gently bending the stems in the direction of the support structure. Secure them with ties until they begin to naturally cling to the support.
• Avoid Overcrowding: Give your climbing plants enough space to spread out along the support. If the plant becomes too crowded, air circulation can be restricted, leading to the development of diseases. Thin out excessive growth as needed.

8. Common Mistakes to Avoid When Growing Climbing Plants

Growing climbing plants can be a rewarding experience, but it's easy to make mistakes that can hinder their growth or even harm the plant. In this section, we’ll highlight some common mistakes gardeners make when growing climbing plants and offer tips on how to avoid them to ensure healthy growth.

1. Incorrect Spacing:

• Problem: Planting climbing plants too close together can lead to overcrowding, reducing airflow and increasing the risk of disease. Inadequate spacing also limits the plant's ability to grow properly.
• Solution: Ensure you give each plant enough space to grow by following the recommended spacing guidelines for the variety. Allow for sufficient air circulation to promote healthy growth and prevent fungal infections.

2. Improper Pruning:

• Problem: Over-pruning or under-pruning can both damage climbing plants. Cutting back too much can weaken the plant, while neglecting pruning can result in tangled growth or excessive foliage without flowers or fruit.
• Solution: Prune climbing plants regularly according to their needs. Make sure you prune at the right time of year (e.g., after blooming for some plants, before new growth for others) and avoid cutting too much at once.

3. Choosing the Wrong Plant for the Environment:

• Problem: Not all climbing plants thrive in the same conditions. Some require full sun, while others need shade. Selecting a plant that doesn’t suit your climate, soil, or light conditions can stunt its growth or cause it to die prematurely.
• Solution: Research the needs of the climbing plant you want to grow. Consider the plant's ideal growing conditions, such as sunlight, temperature, and soil type, and match it with your garden's environment.

4. Neglecting Support Structures:

• Problem: Failing to provide the appropriate support for climbing plants can lead to them sprawling out of control or not growing vertically as desired.
• Solution: Install the correct support structures, such as trellises, arbors, or fences, before planting your climbing plants. Guide the plants onto these supports early to encourage proper growth.

9. Varieties of Climbing Plants to Consider

Choosing the right climbing plant variety for your garden is essential to ensure that it thrives in your specific environment. The following table compares different climbing plant varieties based on key characteristics such as sunlight requirements, bloom time, height, and maintenance. This will help you make an informed decision when selecting the best plant for your space.

Plant Variety	Sunlight Requirement	Bloom Time	Height	Maintenance
Clematis	Full sun/Partial shade	Spring/Summer	6-10 ft	Low
Wisteria	Full sun	Spring	15-30 ft	High
Ivy (English)	Partial shade	Year-round	30+ ft	Low
Morning Glory	Full sun	Summer	10-15 ft	Low

This table provides an overview of the main features of each variety, helping you match the right climbing plant with your garden’s sunlight, space, and maintenance preferences.

 

10. Benefits of Growing Climbing Plants

Climbing plants offer numerous advantages that go beyond their aesthetic appeal. These versatile plants can enhance the beauty of your garden while providing practical benefits for both you and the environment. Below, we’ll explore some of the key benefits of growing climbing plants.

1. Enhancing Garden Aesthetics:

• Climbing plants can transform plain walls, fences, and trellises into vibrant, lush features in your garden.
• Their trailing flowers and foliage add texture and color, making them perfect for vertical gardens, patios, and balconies.
• They also serve as a natural backdrop for other plants and flowers, creating a dynamic landscape.

2. Creating Privacy:

• Climbing plants can be grown along fences, trellises, and arbors to create natural privacy screens.
• They provide an effective way to block out unwanted views, allowing you to enjoy more secluded garden spaces.
• Evergreen climbing plants, such as ivy, offer year-round privacy, even during the winter months.

3. Providing Shade:

• Climbing plants can be used to provide shade for outdoor spaces like patios, decks, or even windows, reducing the need for artificial cooling.
• Plants like wisteria and grapevines can create a shaded canopy that cools down the area underneath and enhances comfort during hot weather.

4. Supporting Wildlife:

• Climbing plants attract pollinators such as bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds, which are essential for the health of your garden.
• They provide shelter for small birds and insects, supporting biodiversity in your outdoor space.

5. Environmental Benefits:

• Climbing plants help purify the air by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen, improving the air quality around your garden.
• In urban areas, climbing plants can reduce the urban heat island effect by cooling down buildings and streets, making cities more comfortable and energy-efficient.

11. FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the most common questions about growing climbing plants, along with practical answers to help you succeed in your gardening endeavors:

Q1: What are the best climbing plants for beginners?

• Morning Glory: Fast-growing and easy to care for, perfect for beginners.
• Sweet Pea: A fragrant climber that blooms profusely in sunny spots, requiring minimal maintenance.
• Clematis: Available in many varieties, clematis is an attractive and low-maintenance plant.
• Ivy: Hardy and versatile, English ivy is ideal for beginners who want quick coverage.

Q2: How do I prevent my climbing plant from taking over my garden?

• Regular Pruning: Trim back excessive growth to keep climbing plants in check.
• Containment: Use trellises or containers to limit spreading.
• Invasive Species: For plants like ivy, consider non-invasive varieties or regularly monitor growth.

Q3: How do I support a climbing plant on a wall without damaging it?

• Use Plant Ties: Soft ties or twine can secure the plant without harming the wall or plant.
• Install Hooks or Netting: Wall hooks or climbing netting can provide a stable support structure without direct attachment to the plant.
• Wall-Friendly Supports: Install wooden or metal trellises that don’t require penetration into the wall.

Q4: Can I grow climbing plants indoors?

• Indoor-Friendly Varieties: Try plants like English Ivy, Hoya, or Climbing Jasmine.
• Proper Lighting: Ensure your indoor climbing plants receive adequate sunlight or provide grow lights if necessary.
• Humidity: Indoor plants may require higher humidity; misting or placing plants near humidifiers can help.

Q5: When is the best time to prune climbing plants?

• Late Winter or Early Spring: For most climbing plants, pruning during dormancy encourages healthy growth in spring.
• Post-Bloom Pruning: Plants like wisteria should be pruned right after blooming to promote new growth and future blooms.
• After Growth Spurt: If your climbing plant has grown too large, prune in late summer to maintain size and shape.

Additional Resources

Seasonal Planting Guide

Plants for Sunny Spots

Container Gardening Ideas