How to Protect Farm Fencing With Vines

Plant vines of all types in spring after the ground thaws. This gives you softer soil for digging and warmer temperatures for new vines.

Choose vines based on your preferences and growing conditions. Plant flowering vines, such as bougainvillea and trumpet vine, in full sun, and foliage-only vines, like ivy, in shaded areas.

Amend sites at every 5 to 10 feet along the fence to give vines room to spread and grow. Dig into the top 10 inches of soil in a 1-foot-square site 1 to 1-1/2 feet from the base of the fence. Turn 3 to 4 inches of organic compost into the tilled soil to give the vines a rich, quick-draining foundation for growth.

Dig holes in the amended sites deep and wide enough for the vines' root balls. Fill around the root balls with amended soil and pack soil around the base of each vine to secure it.

Tie the vines to the posts and rails of the fencing with cord or twine. Tie the vines loosely to avoid damaging them and tie only the main vines and canes to avoid breakage. As the vines grow, tie them up and along the rails for training and coverage.

Water the vines with 2 to 3 inches of water every week to keep them hydrated. Use organic mulch to protect the soil around the vines and keep it moist between waterings.