Landscaping Ideas to Cover a Lattice

Climbing Roses

• Roses are classics for "climbing" lattices, though because they aren't vines, the long, flowering canes need to be loosely attached to receive suitable support. Particularly pretty during its short blooming period is the vigorous Lady Banks rose, with tiny pale yellow flowers and a subtle scent. However, many other climbers will work, including the vigorous red Don Juan and long-blooming Fourth of July. For healthy roses, the lattice needs to be located in an area with full sun, good air circulation and rich, well-drained soil.

Carolina Jessamine

• The state flower of South Carolina, Carolina jessamine is a vigorous evergreen vine that produces trumpet-shaped yellow flowers that are very fragrant. It can be grown in either full sun or partial shade --- full sun will support stronger flowering --- and even in containers. Carolina jessamine is heat- and drought-resistant and requires little fertilization. However, if your family includes young children or pets, consider other possibilities first, because all parts of this plant are poisonous. Autumn-flowering jessamine blooms in both the spring and fall but has no fragrance.

Clematis Vines

• A spectacular perennial vine, clematis is a good choice when you want a permanent setup, in part because it will take a few years before this one will dazzle you. Clemson University Extension describes clematis growth with the old saying: "The first year they sleep, the second year they creep and the third year they leap." Showy vines with 8- or 10-inch flowers may grow to 12 feet tall, but very vigorous small-flowered types including sweet autumn clematis can grow to 30 feet and will need active management as lattice plants. Dense foliage on both deciduous and evergreen types provides good coverage. Clematis likes sun on its foliage but appreciates moist, cool, shady "feet." Low-growing perennials and thick organic mulch can help shelter clematis roots. Most clematis won't compete well against tree roots.

Changing Seasonal Vines

• If the lattice placement is temporary, or you'd prefer variety from year to year, annual vines are a good choice. Sweet pea vines are a perfect choice for spring vines and fragrant early-summer flowers. Morning glories are easy, fast-growing vines that provide brilliant flowers all summer long. Moonflower vines, closely related to morning glories, feature white, very fragrant flowers that open at night. Cup and saucer vine is also showy and easy to grow. Cardinal vine attracts hummingbirds. Vigorous ornamental bean vines are excellent for quick lattice coverage in summer sun; popular options include scarlet runner bean and purple hyacinth bean.