Often producing its highly scented flowers non-stop from late spring to autumn, this fast-growing climber will usually keep its rich green foliage throughout the winter too - especially if the temperatures do not drop too low. The blooms appear in open clusters, and as they age they change from rich pink to blush, and then creamy yellow, and if planted in a sunny, reasonably sheltered spot, their perfume is divine!
To avoid dry conditions, and to ensure good soil contact around the rootball, we advise planting climbers at least 30cm (12in), and preferably 45-60cm (18-24in) away from the base of a wall or fence. An even larger distance should be maintained when planting climbers beside an existing tree or shrub.
Newly planted honeysuckles should be cut back by up to two thirds in their first year in early spring. The resulting new growth can then be tied onto a frame, and then nipped back when they reach the desired height. In subsequent years (again in early spring), thin out congested stems, and prune lanky stems back to healthy buds. Every few years, you may want to renovate your plant, and you can do this by cutting it back to around 60cm above the ground. The subsequent mass of growth will need to be thinned and tied on as before. After pruning, apply a generous 5-7cm (2-3in) mulch of well-rotted compost or manure around the base of the plant.
Full sun / light shade
Fast-growing
Moderately fertile, moist, well-drained soil
Fully hardy
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