I too have some invasive climbers that I just love. Your Article shows what I have always believed. In the proper place they can be not only beautiful but a great feature in your garden.

I've seen pictures of some of yours, Holly, and they are really beautiful.

I didn't mention in the article, but I think the sculptural effects climbers can add to a garden are really effective. It's a little like creating art with them - like the 'doorway' you have there in the corner of your bushes. I have always thought that was so pretty.

Thanks Sharon.

Great article. Brought fond memories of my son at about age 9 or 10 looking closely at a mature wisteria twining up a post and then commenting how 'cool' it would be to use as a torture devise. Boys!

Years and years of 'slow' torture!

Sensible article, Sharon.

I do tend to associate at least all but the most gracile vines and climbers with rapacious tendencies.
Perhaps they seem a bit like those frenetically career-minded individuals who happily climb over the faces of their lesser brethren, reaching up for the shining rewards of authority.
And to continue: also relieving themselves of the more menial tasks of the hoi polloi.

Sorry, Sharon.
Forgot. You're just speaking up for plants.

Anytime, Charlie! I always love your analogies and most always agree with you.

A wonderful article, Sharon, and so beautifully illustrated!

Thanks, Zuzu.
I thought about asking to use the picture of your beautiful wisteria that grows up the old tree, but since I was mostly writing about building our own supports, I thought I should stay on topic.

However, it would be nice if you shared it here in the comments.

Glad to oblige, Sharon.

This is how a person can attain two goals at once, providing support for a vine while hiding an unsightly tree or two.

I love it more every time I see it. Thank you, Zu!

I will agree with Sharon, Zuzu.

After saying rude things about vines and climbers, I must say the wisteria in your picture is quite spectacular.
Lovely picture too.