Vines

Pumpkin Selection

Q. How should we select pumpkins for cooking and decorating?

A. From supermarkets to farm stands and backyard gardens, fall brings vast displays of colorful pumpkins. Pumpkins, as well as squash and cucumbers, are members of the plant family Cucurbita, and originated in the Americas. In recent years, many unique cultivars have been introduced, along with distinctive heirloom varieties.

Trumpet Vine Pruning

Q. How and when should I prune my trumpet vine (Campsis radicans)?

Vine Crops

Q. I have been very disappointed with my vine crops this year. My zucchini plants produced no fruit, and the flowers on my pumpkin plants dropped off. Any suggestions for next year?

Clematis Wilt

Q. I have woven several varieties of clematis through my trellis. The effect is beautiful, but one portion of a clematis wilts, dries and disfigures the arrangement. What is this problem, and how can I treat it?

A. Clematis wilt is a condition affecting many cultivars of this vine. Although damaging to portions of your clematis, the infection rarely kills the entire plant. Look for signs of wilting early in the season. Prune out the affected growth immediately. Often, plants put out new growth below the cut.

Caring for Clematis

Q. What is the best way to care for clematis?

Training clematis and akebia

Q. I am trying to train clematis and five-leaf akebia to climb trees. What are good supports to use that won't damage the vines?

A. Both clematis and five-leaf akebia (Akebia quinata) grow by wrapping their leaf stems around a support system. A fine mesh netting or fishing line wrapped around tree trunks will give the growing shoots something to curl around that won't damage their tender tissue. Metal or wire supports might sever or burn the plant. String fishing line loosely because, as trees grow, the line can cut and damage expanding woody tissue.