How to Grow Morning Glory: Classic Climbers for Fences, Trellises, and Arbors

How to Grow Morning Glory

Morning Glory (Ipomoea purpurea) is the quintessential old-fashioned vine, twining 8–20 feet in a season. Its heart-shaped leaves and huge, fragrant, trumpet-shaped flowers (up to 3 inches) unfurl at dawn and close by afternoon in shades of blue, purple, pink, red, white, and bicolors. Perfect for fences, lamp posts, trellises, and arbors. Note: The family includes night-blooming Moonflowers.

Propagation

Seeds have a hard coat—nick or soak overnight to speed germination (5–10 days). Sow directly after frost, ¼ inch deep, thinning to 6 inches apart. Provide support at planting.

How to Grow Morning Glory

• Light: Full sun.
• Soil: Average, well-drained.
• Water: Moderate; water weekly in dry spells.
• Fertilizer: Monthly balanced feed.
• Maintenance: Mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds. Half-hardy—may survive light frost near buildings.

Bloom Time

Summer through fall.

Pests & Diseases

Minor. Treat early if needed.