Midsummer is almost here and plants are making the most of the warmer weather by growing fast. For hedges and trees growth may be less visible, but if you have climbers and ramblers that grow through your hedge or tree it is worth checking that the plants helping rather than hindering each other.
Having a climbing plant growing through a dark hedge or scrambling up a dull tree can bring focus and colour into what can be a difficult area of a garden. But if the climber starts to take over, your hedge or tree can start to suffer. Many people know that Ivy can damage trees as it strangles as it climbs and other species can do the same. The Golden Hop in the picture is cut back to ground level each autumn, and is already 3-4m high, lassoing nearby tree branches as it goes. Luckily this specimen climbs up a trellis for the first 5 feet so cannot strangle nearby trees.
Although the leaves are such a vibrant green an ornamental hop can be quite a thug and difficult to remove once established. As with all permanent planting it is important to consider the longer term impact before you buy and plant. At Chopwell we offer free independent impartial advice to help you achieve the look you want in your garden both now and for years to come. If you wish to discuss any aspect of your garden do contact us.
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