The trumpet flower drives out long tendrils with which it strives many meters in the air. It is therefore a climbing plant as it is written in books. Their brightly colored flowers are also so striking that they breathe new life into even the most dreary location.

The trumpet flower climbs better with a trellis

Different types of trumpet flowers

Three species of the trumpet flower are widespread in our country. The wild species American trumpet flower and Chinese trumpet flower, as well as the hybrid trumpet vine. Various varieties of them are available on the market, all of which can reach considerable heights of up to 10 m. The most interesting aspect is certainly the color of the flowers that appear from July to September, which can take on many nuances from yellow to red, depending on the variety.

A key feature is winter hardiness. The Chinese trumpet flower, for example, is not made for our climate zone and does not survive winter outdoors, whereas the other two species are hardy to -20 °C. However, they are also without leaves in winter until May.

Notice:
The trumpet flower is slightly poisonous in all parts of the plant. Find out more about it so you can take the necessary precautions.

Suitable for pots and outdoors

The hardy trumpet flowers can be planted outside or grown in a large container. The Chinese trumpet flower has no sensible choice but to grow in a pot. This trumpet flower can also be used as a greenery on balconies due to its pot suitability. It won't grow as high in there, but it will still be 3-5 m.

need for a climbing aid

The trumpet flower can grow independently and hold on. Nevertheless, from a height of 2 m, it should be given a climbing aid to which it is tied at regular intervals. Their thin tendrils are otherwise helpless in strong winds and can even break off under their own weight.

The climbing aid can vary in terms of material and shape, and will certainly also depend on the location of the climbing plant. Everything is possible, from self-tensioned wires to commercially available, stable scaffolding. It is important that it is available soon after planting and that it is not dispensed with even with potted plants.

Care of the climbing plant

Above all, the trumpet flower needs a constantly moist soil and only a few nutrients. These are the main care points:

  • Water as needed throughout the year
  • Soil must not dry out, waterlogging is to be avoided
  • Supply the soil in the pot with a slow-release fertilizer every spring
  • do without fertilizer outdoors
  • Provide some compost in the spring at the most
  • cut radically in February
  • Cut back all side shoots to 3-4 eyes

tips

A nitrogen-rich fertilizer ensures a lot of green for the trumpet flower, but prevents lush flowering. Therefore, avoid such fertilizers.

Category:

Vegetable garden