Trumpet Vine Use

Growing Trumpet Vines

• Trumpet vine, campsis radicans, is also known as trumpet creeper or cow-itch. It is easily grown from seeds or cuttings in well-drained soil. The plant will survive freezing temperatures down to -30 degrees F and is drought-resistant. The deciduous vine grows to 39 feet in length and flowers from August until September. The roots were once used medically as a diaphoretic (to induce perspiration) and a vulnerary (promote healing of wounds). The leaves of the trumpet vine cause dermatitis in some people and cows, hence the name cow-itch, so wear gloves when planting or pruning the plant.

Garden Uses

• Planting trumpet vines is a great way to grow a privacy fence, hide an eye sore in the yard or decorate a garden trellis. When planting along a fence, space the plants or seeds 6 feet apart in full sun. Plant away from buildings, trees or poles so the vines will not reach out and cover them. Trumpet vines can also be used as a ground cover perfect for steep hills and rocky areas where it might be diffcult to mow.

Attracting Hummingbirds

• Trumpet vines in their beautiful shades of red, orange and yellow are known for attracting hummingbirds and bees to the yard or garden. The flowers bloom in August and September and the flowers provide plenty of nectar for hungry hummingbirds and pollen for bees. To grow the trumpet vine in a limited space, plant in an extra-large outdoor pot or plant three pots around a bamboo or wire tee-pee. If the plant attempts to escape, prune back to control the growth. During the winter months, the pods remaining on the vine will provide food for the birds.

Crafts

• Trumpet vines can be turned into wreaths -- similar to honeysuckle or grapevine -- in the fall as the leaves die off. Prune long sections of the vine while still pliable and twist into a wreath shape; wear gloves if you're sensitive to the plant. Hang in an outside building, porch or garage turning once a week until dry. Decorate with dried flowers, herbs, grasses or pods and hang as desired.

  The pods from the trumpet vine can also be used for craft projects. Harvest the pods in the fall before they open and spread their seeds. The pods should be brown and just starting to dry, allow them to finish drying off the vine. The pods may be used in dried flower arrangements, wreaths or painted with acrylic paints and turned into Christmas ornaments or turned into jewelry.