The universe of climbing plants and creepers It's as diverse as it is fascinating. Although their names are often used interchangeably, understanding their differences is key to choosing the most suitable one for each space and function in the garden or home. Both add beauty, freshness, and a natural touch to walls, pergolas, screens, trellises, or balconies, but their growth patterns and needs differ significantly.
What is the difference between creepers and climbers?
La main difference It lies in its way of moving and holding:
- Climbers: These are plants that develop their own mechanisms to hold on and climb vertical surfaces independently. These mechanisms include aerial roots (as in ivy), tendrils (as in passionflowers or sweet peas), thorns (as in climbing roses), or suction cups (as in grapevines and Virginia creeper). They do not require significant external assistance to adhere to walls, iron structures, pergolas, or trellises.
- Vines: Although they belong to the group of climbers, they are characterized by long and flexible stems that cannot stand on their own. They need supports and guides such as tutors, wires or structures, and sometimes they must be helped with ties or bridles to direct them in the desired direction. A clear example is jasmine, honeysuckle or Ipomoea purpurea (purple bellflower).
Both types They share the ability to cover and beautify surfaces in spectacular ways, but the systems they use to do so determine their behavior and maintenance recommendations.
Main species of climbers and creepers
- Autonomous and tendril-bearing climbers: Hedera helix (ivy), Parthenocissus quinquefolia y tricuspidate (virgin vine), Passiflora caerulea (passion flower), wisteria sinensis (wisteria), Bougainvillea (bougainvillea), Campsis radicals (bignonia), Mandevilla sanderi (dipladenia).
- Classic vines: Jazmín (Chinese jasmine, blue jasmine, Madagascar jasmine), lonicera japonica (honeysuckle), Pyrostegia Venusta (fire trumpet), Ipomoea purpurea.
- Climbers with thorns: Climbing roses.
Some species, such as ivy, can be vigorous and quickly cover areas, so in certain environments it's important to control their growth to prevent them from invading other areas of the garden. Others, such as wisteria, can grow very tall and require solid supports.
Uses, location and advantages of each
The choice between a vine or a climbing plant depends on the desired ornamental effect, the available space and the structure to be covered:
- Creepers They are ideal for covering flowerbeds, floors, hanging planters or small trellises, since their growth tends to be more horizontal or adaptable to smaller spaces. They also make it possible to decorate interiors if trained over furniture, shelves, or as hanging plants. If you want to learn more about how to care for and water your climbing plant, we recommend visiting Our article on tips for watering climbing plants.
- Climbers They are the perfect option for covering walls, pergolas, arches, fences, or columns. They are recommended when you want to create shade, hide structures, or create vertical green walls without constant manual effort. You can also consult climbing plants for the entrance for specific location ideas.
Some species, such as jasmine or honeysuckle, provide intoxicating aromas, while bougainvillea, wisteria, and passionflower offer an explosion of flowers and color. In addition, both climbers and creepers contribute to improving ambient temperature and humidity, promote biodiversity, and add a distinctive touch to any space.
Specific care and maintenance
The success of these plants depends largely on choosing their location carefully, providing support if needed, and maintaining them in a manner tailored to each species:
- Irrigation: It's recommended to provide a well-draining substrate and water regularly, avoiding waterlogging. Vines and climbers planted in full sun or in dry climates may need more water, but it's always preferable to let the top layer of the substrate dry between waterings. For more information on this topic, see .
- Soil and fertilization: Both prefer soils rich in organic matter and well aerated. Adding compost or fertilizer during spring and summer promotes budding and flowering.
- Pruning: Pruning is essential both to control growth and to promote flowering. It is recommended to prune after the main flowering period and always remove damaged or dead branches. In the case of very vigorous species (such as ivy or Virginia creeper), more intensive pruning will prevent them from invading unwanted areas.
- Plagues and diseases: Pay special attention to the appearance of mealybugs, aphids and mitesPotassium soap and neem oil are excellent natural allies for keeping them under control. Feedback on these treatments can be found at climbing plants that don't make a mess.
- Light and exposure: Choose well-lit locations for flowering plants, although some, like ivy, can thrive in partial shade. Always check the specific needs of each plant.
Tips and tricks for success with vines and climbers
Before choosing your plant, consider the structure you want to cover and whether you prefer an evergreen variety (such as ivy, which maintains its foliage year-round) or a deciduous variety (such as Virginia creeper, which changes color in the fall and protects the structure during the winter). Also consider lateral space requirements and support needs, especially with climbing vines, and don't hesitate to combine several species to achieve staggered blooms or different colors.
You can also use these plants to create green walls, natural shade curtains, reading nooks, acoustic screens, or to separate spaces in gardens and terraces.
Understand the differences between creepers and vines This will allow you to make the most of its decorative and functional potential. By choosing the right species for each context, guiding its growth, and providing basic care, you'll be able to transform any corner into a vibrant green tapestry full of life, color, and personality.
