If you're considering an aluminum fence, then you might also be thinking about ways to embellish it with vines. One great thing about aluminum fences is that they can put up with a lot of things that wooden fences can't handle. This means that you are not as restricted in what you can have growing on your fence. When grown well, these vines will grow fairly trouble-free on your aluminum fence for a long time. Here are some hints to get you started so that you can get the best, most carefree results.
Carefully choose your plants:
Since aluminum fences are very durable, you'll have a lot of choices as to what you can grow. You can try woody vines such as wisteria or fruity vines like grapevines. Virginia creeper and climbing hydrangea are great for all-over coverage and privacy, but they may require more maintenance in order for them to grow the way you want them to grow. Be sure to do your research and talk to a few nurseries before settling on a choice. Some vines are highly invasive and will quickly take over everything in your yard. These invasive vines are very difficult to get rid of once they're established.
Prepare for the plants:
Vines can be bought at a nursery already staked and started. Most of the time, all you need to do is is plant them in the ground and begin "training" them to wrap around the slats of your aluminum fence. Try planting the vines as close to your fence as possible and spacing them at least a foot apart to get the best coverage. You will likely need ties to secure the vine to your fence in various spots and encourage your plants to grow in the desired directions. Be sure to keep your vines away from areas where you don't want them.
Caring for your fence:
Once the vines begin growing, be sure to shape and prune them and check for any insects and damage to your fence. Some vines grow faster than others, and they may take years to fully cover your fence. Aluminum fences have an advantage in that moisture and insects are less likely to cause your fence to deteriorate, so other than pruning, fertilizing, and a quick check under or around the vines, there is very little maintenance needed above normal fence maintenance.
If you think an aluminum fence would be a great addition to your yard because with one you can do things like grow ivy with little problem, then call a fencing company such as Veterans Tree & Fence to find out more about what shape and size fence would be best for growing vines for your yard.
