We're installing a solar system on the top of our front patio, and in order to cover up the ugly tilted undersides, which will be visible from the street and ruin the pretty Spanish courtyard's look, we want to add a 18" tall lattice panel to the top (it will sit on top of the uppermost beam, and add 18" of height). What I'd really like to do is grow some brightly colored climbing flowers all across that lattice, especially something reddish-pink or orange. I really like the look of bougainvillea. My question is, do you think that would be possible in this particular case? How long would it take to grow across, if I planted a bush on either side? What's the best way to achieve this look? Will strategically placed hanging baskets work, or do I need to grow it from the ground up? How would I go about starting? Also, do you have any other suggestions for plants that might give a similar look, grow fast, and thrive well with little care? I'd appreciate it, I'm pretty lost when it comes to gardening, and I want to make it look good! Here's a photoshopped version of the house, with bougainvillea digitally added to the top of the patio...the look I HOPE to achieve. Photoshopped patio ( photo / image / picture from imagardennewbie's Garden )
Hi Ima - I think that bougainvillia would be just beautiful growing along that pergola! Growing them in the ground would be the way to go, as you would want them to be stable and have plenty of room for roots. You will have to train them to grown upwards, keeping them supported, and once they reach the hight to go horizontal, they will really flourish. There is nothting more beautiful than a sea of those intense colors! It will be a classic Spanish look. Coverage will happen quicker with two plants, one on either side, like you mentioned. I'm not sure how long it will take, but with good care (plants at nurserys normally have instructions) and the summer heat I know you get there, they will do well. Good luck.
