Test Garden Update: Jackie Smith, Belle Plaine, MN | From the Test Gardens

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September 1st, 2010

Test Garden Update: Jackie Smith, Belle Plaine, MN

playhouse-1 Kathy’s post inspires me to share this kid-sized structure for vines. A few years back we built the “playhouse” using elm and ash saplings. Fair warning: It’s a fun morning project with helpers, but pretty frustrating trying to do it yourself.

playhouse-2

By September of the first year, the entire structure was covered with cardinal vines and ‘Heavenly Blue’ morning glories. Every year since then, the playhouse has been covered with annual vines, including squash and gourds for the past couple years. Whatever we plant, the entire structure is an eye-stopper without fail.

Like Kathy, we set the uprights directly into the soil and expect we’ll have to replace the entire structure in another couple years. We were hoping for 10 years, but the constant irrigation has lowered our expectations somewhat.

Tags: vines

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