Climbing plants are useful additions to our outside spaces. Even in small terraces or on balconies, growing vertically can maximize greenery. Think fragrant jasmine flowers perfuming the air in the summertime or romantic climbing roses draped over a pergola. Some climbers, however, are considered invasive plants, growing at an alarming rate, self-propagating and out-competing other species.
As a former professional gardener, I have grown and cared for hundreds of climbing plants in several gardens across the UK. While most climbers are manageable and can be contained, some are more problematic. I once had to battle with an overgrown Virginia creeper, Parthenocissus quinquefolia, that had covered the exterior walls of a home in London. Over time, it had swamped and killed other plants. Invasive climbers like this, therefore, should be avoided.
