Marianne's Response

North Facing Fence Suggestions

Hi Marianne,
I live in CT, zone 6b. When approaching my home, there is a seventy foot span of aluminum fencing, 4 feet tall, with vinyl covered welded wire, 2″ x 4″ mesh, attached to the south side to keep my little dog in. Approaching visitors are looking at the north facing side. What would you recommend I plant on the north side of the fence that will look nice? I would love some climbing roses, but I’m afraid the only ones that will enjoy the blooms are the dogs…
Thank you for any advice you can give me!
Sally

Posted by Ann Gardner on April 28, 2020

Marianne's Response

The North or shaded side of the fence may not be sunny enough for roses but why not grow clematis and evergreens instead. The evergreen Pieris japonica comes in many forms from dwarf to tall and this elegant shrub can act like a trellis to support the purple blooms of Jackmani clematis. Polish Spirit is another clematis that will ramble through your shrubs. Clematis is a vine that likes to have it's feet or roots in the shade but will grow towards the sun and can be trained to scramble on the north or south side of the fence. Keep growing, Marianne Binetti

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