Choosing Plants For Your Pergola

Want to create a healthy, natural environment right in your backyard? If  you already have a pergola or are planning on purchasing one, why not grow some colorful plants or vines and enjoy both the smell and beauty of flowers. Consider some of these types of plants and choose an option that is best suitable for you.

Climbing Plants

Climbing plants definitely create the most shade and are probably the most decorative if mixed with colorful flower types. To start a climbing plant your may need a net or trellis on one side of the pergola to provide support for the plant so it can climb and eventually spread over the top. Some of the best climbing plants are clematis, climbing roses, passion flower, or wisteria.

Hanging Flower Plants

Hanging flower baskets are a great option considering how little maintenance they require. Many times people wrap a color matching chain around the beam or rafter of the pergola and hang the flower pot on the chain. For a more permanent method, fasten an outdoor plant hangar or hook to the pergola and hang your flower pot from that. There are lots of varieties like the Bacopa, Fuchsia, or Calibrachoa. Since hanging plants are at eye level or higher, choose a draping or flowing plant that will look good from the side.

Shrubbery

Planted shrubs or flowers are perfect for a natural border around the perimeter or just one side of a pergola. This will require more work since you will be digging a hole, than placing fertilizer and water around the roots of the plants as you cover it with soil. Since there are many different types of shrubs, first decide on the color, style, or how much of an enclosure you want the shrubs to create. This will give a gardener an idea of the type of shrub that will best suit your needs.

All plants require routine maintenance like watering, fertilizer, trimming, and the occasional cleaning of dirt or leaves. It is a good idea to check with a local greenhouse expert, for advice on plants that grow well in your local area. This can be critical since some plants grow better in a warm climate and some grow better in a cool climate. With a few helpful tips you are on the road to creating a beautiful backyard!