Trumpet Creeper

Choosing Trumpet Creeper: Hey there, future gardener! Trumpet Creeper is a beautiful climbing plant that produces vibrant orange or red trumpet-shaped flowers. It's perfect if you want to add some vertical flair to your garden. You can either start with seeds (which take longer) or opt for young plants from a nursery.

When to Plant: Trumpet Creepers love warmth and grow best when planted in spring or early summer. If you're starting with seeds indoors, begin them about 6-8 weeks before the last frost date in your area. For planting directly outdoors, wait until the danger of frost has passed.

Tools and Materials Needed:

• Trumpet Creeper seeds or young plants
• A large pot or garden space
• Regular garden soil (it doesn’t need anything fancy)
• Trellis, fence, or wall for support
• Watering can or hose
• Gardening gloves (optional, but helpful)

Tip: Make sure you have enough space because Trumpet Creepers can spread quite a bit!

If Using Seeds:

1. Fill small pots or seed trays with moist soil.
2. Place 2-3 seeds in each hole, covering them with about ¼ inch (0.6 cm) of soil.
3. Keep the soil consistently moist, but not soggy.
4. Put the pots in a warm, sunny spot (around 70°F/21°C).
5. Seeds should sprout within 1-2 weeks.
6. Once they’re big enough to handle and have several leaves, transplant them into larger pots or directly into your garden.

If Using Young Plants:

1. Dig a hole twice as wide and just as deep as the root ball of the plant.
2. Gently remove the plant from its container and place it in the hole.
3. Backfill with soil, pressing down lightly around the base of the plant.
4. Water thoroughly to help settle the soil around the roots.

Support Structure: Since Trumpet Creepers are climbers, make sure you have a trellis, fence, or wall nearby for them to cling to. They’ll naturally start climbing, but you might need to guide the vines initially.

Tip: Plant them at least 5 feet away from structures to give them room to grow.

Sunlight Requirements: Trumpet Creepers thrive in full sun. Aim for at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily. The more sun they get, the more flowers they’ll produce!

Watering Method:

• Water regularly during the first growing season to help establish strong roots.
• Once established, they are fairly drought-tolerant but still benefit from occasional watering during dry spells.
• Check the soil; if the top inch feels dry, it’s time to water.

Fertilizing Tips:

• These plants don’t require heavy feeding. A light application of balanced fertilizer in early spring is usually sufficient.
• Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can lead to excessive leaf growth at the expense of flowers.

Pruning and Training:

• Prune in late winter or early spring to control size and shape.
• Remove any dead or weak stems to encourage healthy growth.
• Guide new shoots onto your trellis or support structure as needed.

Tip: Wear gloves when handling Trumpet Creepers, as some people may experience skin irritation from their sap.

Enjoying Your Trumpet Creeper: Unlike vegetables, Trumpet Creepers don’t produce edible fruits, so there’s no harvesting involved. Instead, enjoy their stunning blooms throughout the summer!

Flowering Period:

• Flowers typically appear from early summer through fall.
• Deadhead spent blooms to encourage continuous flowering.

Attracting Wildlife:

• Trumpet Creepers are excellent for attracting hummingbirds and butterflies to your garden.
• Watch as these delightful creatures visit your blooms frequently!

Tip: If you want to propagate more Trumpet Creepers, collect seeds from dried seed pods in the fall or take cuttings in late spring.

Q: Why isn't my Trumpet Creeper blooming?

A: Lack of sunlight is often the culprit. Ensure it gets plenty of direct sunlight. Also, avoid over-fertilizing, which can promote leafy growth instead of flowers.

Q: Is Trumpet Creeper invasive?

A: It can be aggressive and spread quickly. Regular pruning helps keep it under control. Consider planting it where it has room to roam without overwhelming other plants.

Q: Can Trumpet Creeper grow in shade?

A: While it can tolerate partial shade, it won’t flower as abundantly. Full sun is best for optimal blooming.

Q: How do I stop it from spreading too much?

A: Prune regularly and remove suckers (new shoots that pop up away from the main plant). You can also plant it in containers to limit root spread.

Q: Are the flowers safe for pets?

A: The plant contains compounds that may irritate skin or cause mild stomach upset if ingested. It’s best to keep curious pets away.