I used to think I couldn’t have a pretty garden because I live in an apartment.
Boy, was I wrong! After trying out different climbing plants in pots on my balcony, I’ve found 10 that work like magic.
Trust me, if I can grow these, anyone can!
Top 10 Flowering Vines for Containers
1. Morning Glory
I absolutely adore Morning Glories – they’re like nature’s alarm clock! These stunning flowers literally unfold as the sun comes up, putting on a daily show in my container garden.
The delicate tendrils have such a sweet, old-fashioned charm that reminds me of my grandmother’s garden.
Best of all, they’re super easy to grow, which is perfect for busy moms like me who can’t spend hours gardening.
2. Clematis
If you’re looking to add some height to your container garden, Clematis is your new best friend. I learned this the hard way – make sure you give them a big pot!
These gorgeous climbers need regular feeding and plenty of water, but trust me, they’re worth the extra attention.
I keep a watering can right next to mine as a reminder to give them a good drink regularly.
3. Climbing Hydrangea
Here’s a secret weapon for those shady spots where nothing else seems to grow – Climbing Hydrangea! These beautiful vines have transformed the darker corner of my patio.
You’ll need a sturdy support system and a really big container (think half whiskey barrel size).
They’re perfect for creating a natural privacy screen along fences or trellises.
4. Trumpet Vine
Want to attract hummingbirds? Trumpet Vine is your answer! The kids and I love watching these little visitors come to check out the yellow and red trumpet-shaped blooms.
Just a heads up – this vine grows like crazy, so keep an eye on it. I learned that lesson when mine tried to take over my entire container garden!
In colder areas like ours, I wrap the container in bubble wrap during winter to keep the roots cozy.
5. Bougainvillea
Even though it’s technically not a vine (it’s actually a climbing shrub), I had to include Bougainvillea because it’s such a showstopper.
This plant brings instant tropical vibes to any space. Mine makes me feel like I’m on vacation every time I step onto the patio!
Just remember to bring it inside or protect it during winter if you live somewhere cold like I do.
6. Honeysuckle
The sweet smell of honeysuckle takes me right back to my childhood! With 180 different varieties to choose from, there’s one for every garden style.
These hardy plants are pretty low-maintenance – just make sure they get enough sun and regular water.
I give mine a bit of all-purpose fertilizer now and then, and they reward me with gorgeous blooms.
7. Climbing Rose
Nothing says romance quite like climbing roses! The scent alone makes my morning coffee on the patio feel extra special.
Fair warning: they do need some TLC, including regular pruning and deadheading (removing old flowers).
But don’t let that scare you off – the stunning blooms are totally worth the extra effort!
8. Mandevilla
Looking for something that blooms all summer long? Mandevilla is your plant! Those funnel-shaped flowers are absolutely gorgeous.
In my zone, I treat it as an annual since it can’t handle our cold winters.
The bright pink blooms make such cheerful container plants – they’re like sunshine on a stem!
9. Passion Flower
Talk about a conversation starter! My Passion Flower vine always gets “wows” from visitors because of its exotic-looking blooms.
It needs plenty of sun to thrive, but it’s surprisingly tough for such a delicate-looking plant.
I move mine to a protected spot during winter months to keep it happy.
10. Common Jasmine
If you love fragrant gardens, Jasmine is a must-have! Just be warned – a little goes a long way with this sweetly scented plant.
I grow mine in well-draining potting mix and keep it in a warm, sunny spot.
Here in the north, it blooms during summer, but my friend in Florida gets flowers almost year-round (I’m not jealous at all!).