The Trumpet Creeper (also called Trumpet Vine) is a fast-growing flowering vine known for its vibrant orange-red trumpet-shaped flowers that attract hummingbirds. While it’s a vigorous grower, following these simple care tips will help you keep it healthy and blooming beautifully.
1. Sunlight: Full Sun for Best Blooms
This vine is a sun-loving plant that needs direct sunlight to thrive. Plant it in a south-facing spot where it will get at least 6-8 hours of direct sun daily. More sun means more flowers! In shady spots, it will grow poorly and may not flower at all.
2. Watering: Consistent Moisture is Key
- Growing Season (Spring-Fall): Water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist. Check the soil every few days and water when the top inch feels dry.
- Dormant Season (Winter): Reduce watering significantly. Only water when the soil is completely dry.
3. Soil and Repotting: Not Fussy but Needs Good Drainage
- Soil Type: Adapts to most soil types including garden soil and potting mix
- Container Growing: Repot when roots fill the container, moving to a pot just 2-3 inches larger
- Ground Planting: Ensure the planting area has good drainage
4. Air Circulation: Give It Space to Breathe
This vine grows best with good air circulation. When growing against a wall or fence, make sure there’s some space between the plant and the surface. Avoid overcrowding with other plants.
5. Feeding: For Lush Growth and Flowers
- Growing Season: Use a bloom booster fertilizer every 2-3 weeks during the growing season
- Dormant Season: In late fall, mix compost or well-rotted manure into the soil around the plant
6. Winter Care: Surprisingly Hardy
Trumpet Creeper is cold hardy in most regions:
- Survives winters in most USDA zones
- Established plants can handle temperatures down to -20°F (-29°C)
- In extremely cold areas (below -30°F), provide some winter protection
7. Pruning: Simple Maintenance
- Remove dead or diseased branches as needed
- Prune in late winter to control size and shape
- Wear gloves when pruning as some people may have skin irritation
8. Easy Propagation: Make New Plants
Create new plants from cuttings:
- Take 6-8 inch cuttings from new growth
- Remove the lower leaves
- Dip in rooting hormone (available at garden centers)
- Plant in fresh potting mix and keep moist until established
Important Note: Trumpet Creeper is a vigorous grower that can spread quickly. In some areas, it may be considered invasive. Check with your local extension office before planting, and consider growing it in a container or using root barriers to control its spread.
With its stunning flowers and low-maintenance nature, Trumpet Creeper is a great choice for adding vertical interest and attracting wildlife to your garden. Just be prepared to give it occasional trimming to keep it under control!
