Summer Wall Climbers
By Laurelynn Martin and Byron Martin
Byron Martin’s three favorite summer wall climbers: Schisandra berry (Schisandra chinensis), Goji Berry (Lycium barbarum 'Crimson Star'), and Hops ‘Willamette’ (Humulus lupulus). All three are extremely easy to care for and are growing side by side at Logee’s. Also, they are hardy perennials so once established on a wall or lattice, they will come back year after year and produce delicious berries and flowers.
This Chinese herb is said to increase and balance body energy or chi. The vine flowers in April and May followed by berries. By the end of August they will ripen to clusters of bright red and this beneficial berry will be ready to eat.
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The Goji Berry vine is hardy to Zone 5 and will form the first year. Goji Berries are a super food and will grow and ripen from August to October. They are sweet and delicious whether eaten off the vine or sun-dried and saved for later.
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Hops are a fast growing hardy perennial. This vine at Logee’s is two-years-old and by the first of July has already reached the top of the lattice. We grow ‘Williamette’ an aromatic variety, that is one of the most favored hops for pale ales, brown ales or UK style ales. The fragrant flowers bloom in abundance.
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Grow all three vines in full sun on a trellis, arbor or wall for support. Feed during the active growing season and be prepared for a delicious harvest at the end of the growing season.