The maidenhaired vine (Parthenocissus), often also called wild vine or briar, is a fast and very densely growing climbing plant that - depending on the type and variety - either self-climbing using adhesive disks or with the help of climbing aids to plant larger areas such as walls or house walls. Due to the lush foliage, it is also very suitable as a privacy screen from prying eyes, although the plant is only deciduous and sheds its leaves in autumn.
A fence must be very strong to support the weight of the Virginia creeper
Fences are usually not stable enough
Virginia creeper can grow several meters high and just as wide - in good locations growth heights of 10 meters and more are not uncommon. In addition, the perennial plant lignifies over the years and forms very stable trunks and branches. When greening standard wire mesh and wooden fences with Virginia creeper, this means that the fences are too low for the enormous growth potential of these plants and are not stable enough. Older young vines can reach a considerable weight and tear down even the most stable fence.
Observe neighborhood law
Before a possible planting, it should also be clarified who actually owns the fence - if it is a border fence between two properties. If it is your neighbor's fence, he could simply remove his property and replace it with another boundary - including the Virginia creeper you planted and may have lovingly cared for over the years.
Pay attention to the right location
If all these points have been clarified and nothing stands in the way of the fence being covered with Virginia creeper, you should first check the suitability of the location. Virginia creeper needs a spot that is as sunny, warm and sheltered as possible (particularly sheltered from the wind!), ideally facing south or south-east. In addition, Virginia creeper loves loose, permeable, slightly moist and nutrient-rich soil.
tips
Other climbing plants are much better suited for planting on fences than Virginia creeper. Annual climbing plants such as sweet peas, black-eyed Susanne or various ornamental gourds are particularly suitable. Clematis, passion flowers or wisteria - particularly striking when they are colorfully mixed - decorate every fence. On the other hand, if the privacy screen is to be more permanent, the honeysuckle is a good alternative.