5 wall climbers that provide food and shelter for wildlife

Growing climbing plants is a brilliant and beautiful way to liven up dull vertical surfaces, like a wall, fence or pergola. Increasing the number of plants, we grow provides a greater food source to a diversity of wildlife.

Below are our top 5 wall climbers to help the local wildlife and make our spaces more aesthetic:

1. Climbing Rose is a great option for a climber. They are one of the easiest to grow and offer a range of benefits for wildlife throughout the year. The insects love the floral nectar and certain varieties have leaves favoured by the leafcutter bee. Birds will also appreciate the shelter and food source from the hips, later in the year.

2. Clematis are a fast-growing climber that provide a number of benefits for wildlife. Birds will use them for shelter and if you leave the seed heads then they will be used to build nests the following Spring. The abundant flowers of a Clematis are a vital nectar source for insects.

3. Honeysuckles have a plethora of benefits for wildlife and is therefore another must for a garden. The birds will thank you for the shelter and the food source (berries) , whilst the insects will feed on the nectar and leaves. The smell from a honeysuckle is an extra bonus to any keen gardener.

4. Ivy provides a long-lasting, evergreen cover for wildlife. It provides shelter for nesting birds and hibernating insects, nectar for pollinators, berries for birds and leaves for caterpillars (including the holly blue butterfly).

5. Passion Flower is a popular option with gardeners for its colour. It’s dark, evergreen leaves and exotic-looking flowers provides general shelter for insects and birds, and nectar for some pollinators.

Top Tip

When planting a climber ensure to avoid the “rain shadow” and plant climbers 45cm away from the support structure so the roots will benefit from the rain fall. Before you plant the climber and firm it in position, work a trowelful of Soil Improver into the top later of soil. Once the climber is established apply a splash of Bloom, plant feed twice a week around the base and water in well to keep the vigour going to the end of the season.