Black-eyed Susan vine (Thunbergia alata) just like clematis vine is a delightful climbing plant known for its vibrant blooms and ability to add a touch of colorful charm to any garden or outdoor space.
With its sunny yellow, orange, or white flowers and lush green foliage, this vine is a popular choice for trellises, fences, and other structures in need of a vertical accent.
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Whether you are a first time gardener or seasoned one. Growing Passion flower vines, cultivating black-eyed Susan vine is a rewarding experience. Here’s how you can grow them.
Ideal climate and location to grow black-eyed Susan vine
Black-eyed Susan vine thrives in warm climates and requires full sun exposure. Select a location that receives at least six hours of direct sunlight daily.
While it is commonly grown as an annual, it can be perennial in warmer regions. Consider your climate and choose an appropriate planting time accordingly.
Preparing the soil
Prepare the soil before planting the black-eyed Susan vine. This vine prefers well-draining soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH level (around 6.0 to 7.0).
Improve soil fertility and drainage by incorporating organic matter like compost or aged manure.
Planting Black-Eyed Susan Vine
You can start black-eyed Susan vine from quality selected seeds or purchase young plants from a nursery. If starting from seeds, sow them indoors about 6 to 8 weeks before the last frost date in your area.
Once the risk of frost has passed, transplant the seedlings into your garden. Space the plants about 12 to 18 inches apart to allow them room to grow.
How to take care of The Black-Eyed Susan Vine
- Sunlight and location
Black-eyed Susan vine thrives in full sunlight, so choose a location that receives at least six hours of direct sun per day. Place it in a spot where it can climb and receive adequate support.
- Watering
Keep the soil evenly moist, especially during hot and dry periods. Water deeply, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings. Avoid overwatering, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot.
- Support and training
Make a sturdy trellis, fence, or other support for the vine to climb. As it grows, gently guide the vines to encourage upward growth and twining around the support structure.
- Fertilization
Apply a balanced, slow-release fertilizer or rich manure or a water-soluble fertilizer every few weeks during the growing season. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package for proper dosage and application method.
- Pruning
Regularly prune the vine to maintain its shape, control its growth, and promote bushier growth. Remove any dead or diseased foliage and trim back excessively long or straggly stems.
- Pests and diseases
Black-eyed Susan vine is generally resistant to pests and diseases. However, keep an eye out for common garden pests such as aphids or spider mites. Treat any infestations promptly with appropriate insecticidal soaps or pesticides.
- Overwintering considerations
In areas with frost, black-eyed Susan vine is usually grown like the artichoke plant as an annual. However, in warmer regions, it can be perennial. Apply mulch around the base of the plant in colder months to help protect the roots from freezing temperatures.
How long does it take for Black-Eyed Susan Vine to bloom?
Black-eyed Susan vine (Thunbergia alata) typically starts blooming about 10 to 12 weeks after planting the seeds or transplanting the young plants into the garden.
However, the exact time it takes for the vine to bloom can vary depending on various factors such as growing conditions, temperature, sunlight, and the overall health of the plant.
It is important to note that some varieties may bloom earlier or later than others. With proper care and optimal growing conditions, you can expect to see the vibrant blooms of the black-eyed Susan vine in approximately 2 to 3 months after planting.
Do Black-Eyed Susan Vines come back every year?
Black-eyed Susan vine is typically grown as an annual in areas with frost. It is not reliably winter hardy and does not come back on its own in colder regions.
However, in warmer climates where temperatures do not drop below freezing, it may behave as a perennial and regrow each year.
In such regions, it is possible for the black-eyed Susan vine to come back annually if provided with appropriate growing conditions and care.
How do you winterize a Black-Eyed Susan Vine?
If you live in a region with mild winters, or if you want to attempt overwintering the vine, you can take certain steps to protect it:
- Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as straw, shredded leaves, or wood chips, around the base of the plant before the first frost. Aim for a thickness of 2 to 3 inches. Mulching helps insulate the roots and protects them from extreme temperature fluctuations. It also helps retain moisture in the soil.
- Pruning: Trim back the vine after it has finished blooming and before winter arrives. Cut back the stems to a manageable size, leaving about 6 inches of growth above the soil level. This pruning helps reduce the overall size of the plant and encourages it to focus its energy on root development rather than maintaining extensive foliage. Remove any dead or damaged stems during this process.
- Container plants: If you have Black-Eyed Susan Vine or Calla lilies growing in containers, consider bringing them indoors before the first frost. Choose a cool, well-lit area, such as a garage, basement, or a bright room near a window. Water the plant sparingly during winter as it will experience reduced growth and require less moisture.
- Protecting the roots: In regions with milder winters, you can provide extra protection for the roots. Once you have pruned the vine, cover the base of the plant with a thick layer of mulch or additional insulation, such as straw or shredded leaves. This extra layer of insulation helps shield the roots from freezing temperatures and frost.
- Monitoring moisture: During winter, it’s important to monitor the moisture levels around the plant. While the vine is in its dormant state, it requires less water. Avoid overwatering, as excessive moisture can lead to root rot.
Should I cut back Black-Eyed Susan Vine?
Yes, it is generally recommended to cut back Black-Eyed Susan Vine (Thunbergia alata) for several reasons. Pruning helps control the growth and shape of the vine, preventing it from becoming overly unruly or invasive.
It also promotes bushier growth and encourages more compact and vigorous flowering. Regular pruning can help to remove any dead or diseased foliage, improving the overall health and appearance of the plant.
Additionally, cutting back the vine after it has finished blooming can help prevent self-seeding and keep it from spreading too aggressively. It is best to prune the vine in early spring or late winter before new growth emerges.
Do hummingbirds like Black-Eyed Susan Vine?
While hummingbirds may visit Black-Eyed Susan Vine (Thunbergia alata) for its nectar-rich flowers, it is not typically their favourite source of nectar.
Hummingbirds are known to prefer flowers with higher sugar concentrations and longer tubular shapes that accommodate their long bills and tongues.
However, Black-Eyed Susan Vine can still attract hummingbirds and provide them with a supplemental nectar source.
It adds variety to their diet and contributes to the overall biodiversity of your garden, making it a worthwhile addition for both hummingbird enthusiasts and gardeners alike.