| I am planting Bougainvillea and Star Jasmine along a long chain link fence in the hope that they will eventually cover it. What I am unable to find is how far apart do I plant each plant in order to get even coverage in the future. |
| Star Jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides)can produce twining vines up to 20' per growing season. For fast coverage, space the plants 3'-4' apart. Once established, Star Jasmine is a vigorous grower. If you can wait 4-5 years for coverage of your fence, space the plants 6' apart and pinch the growing tips out to encourage additional vining stems. Bougainvillea is a vigorous plant once established and can grow 25'-50' high with a 25'-35' spread. If you're in a hurry to cover your fence line, space your plants 8'-10' apart. Otherwise, place them 15'-20' feet apart and wait for them to fill in. |
| I would think twice before planting bougainvilleas. I've grown several varieties of bougs' and all I can say is that if you are the one who is going to be taking care of the fence, you might consider choosing something without the thorns. All bougs' are thorny (even the thornless varieties), and very vigorous growers. They will take over your fence, and make it nearly impossible to keep at bay. And once established, they can be hard to remove. A good alternative, with attractive yellow flowers, that bears edible gourds to use in soups (when the fruit is young) is the "Luffa aegyptiaca, sponge gourd, Egyptian cucumber, or Vietnamese luffa". You can buy the seeds online. You can also let the fruit grow to full size and when it turns brown, pick it and use the sponges to wash your body (or dishes and pans). These will grow up to 30 feet and cover a chain-link fence. When in bloom, they are very attractive. Good for zones 8+ with longer growing seasons. |
| I can't even imagine anyone not planting Bougainvilles when your zone permits it! Most beautiful shrub on the face of the earth! Plant them at most, a foot apart. As this was a 1999 posting, who is reading it? LOL |
| You may also want to consider Carolina jasmine. It is easier to control than star jasmine. |
| I am visiting from Florida and I know the b. plant is excellent. Also, it keeps unwanted guests from hopping your fence! |
