Trumpet Honeysuckle: A Guide to Growing and Caring for This Beautiful Plant

Are you looking for a beautiful and fragrant addition to your garden? Look no further than the trumpet honeysuckle! This plant is beloved by gardeners and hummingbirds alike for its delicate trumpet-shaped flowers and sweet nectar. In this guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about growing and caring for trumpet honeysuckle.

What is Trumpet Honeysuckle?

Trumpet honeysuckle, also known as Lonicera sempervirens, is a deciduous or evergreen vine that is native to North America. It is commonly found in woodlands and along roadsides, but it is also a popular ornamental plant due to its beautiful flowers and sweet fragrance. The plant typically grows to be around 10-20 feet long and produces clusters of bright, tubular flowers that range in color from orange to yellow to red.

Planting Trumpet Honeysuckle

If you want to grow trumpet honeysuckle in your garden, here's what you need to do:

Choose a location

Trumpet honeysuckle prefers a sunny or partially shaded location with well-draining soil. It can also grow in a variety of soil types, but it does best in moist, fertile soil.

Prepare the soil

Before planting, loosen the soil and add organic matter, such as compost or aged manure. This will help improve the soil's drainage and fertility.

Plant the vine

Dig a hole that is slightly larger than the plant's root ball, and then place the plant in the hole. Fill in the hole with soil and water the plant thoroughly. You should also add a layer of mulch around the base of the plant to help retain moisture.

Support the vine

Trumpet honeysuckle is a climbing plant, so it will need some kind of support as it grows. You can use a trellis, fence, or other structure to provide support for the vine.

Caring for Trumpet Honeysuckle

Once your trumpet honeysuckle is planted, there are a few things you can do to help it thrive:

Water regularly

Trumpet honeysuckle prefers moist soil, so make sure to water it regularly, especially during dry periods. However, be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.

Fertilize occasionally

You can fertilize your trumpet honeysuckle once or twice a year with a balanced fertilizer. However, be careful not to over-fertilize, as this can cause the plant to grow too quickly and become weak.

Prune as needed

Trumpet honeysuckle can become quite large if left to its own devices, so you may need to prune it from time to time to keep it under control. Pruning can also help promote more blooms.

Common Problems

While trumpet honeysuckle is generally a hardy and easy-to-care-for plant, it can sometimes encounter problems. Here are a few of the most common issues:

Pest infestations

Trumpet honeysuckle can attract aphids, spider mites, and other pests. If you notice an infestation, try spraying the plant with a strong stream of water or using an insecticidal soap.

Disease

Trumpet honeysuckle can sometimes develop fungal diseases, such as powdery mildew or leaf spot. If you notice any signs of disease, remove the affected leaves and dispose of them to prevent the disease from spreading.

FAQs

Q: How often should I water my trumpet honeysuckle?

A: Trumpet honeysuckle prefers moist soil, so you should water it regularly, especially during dry periods. However, be careful not to overwater, as this can lead to root rot.

Q: How tall does trumpet honeysuckle grow?

A: Trumpet honeysuckle typically grows to be around 10-20 feet long.

Q: Can trumpet honeysuckle be grown in a container?

A: Yes, trumpet honeysuckle can be grown in a container, but it will need a trellis or other support.

Q: How do I propagate trumpet honeysuckle?

A: Trumpet honeysuckle can be propagated by taking stem cuttings in the summer or fall. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in a well-draining soil mix.

Q: Is trumpet honeysuckle poisonous to pets?

A: While trumpet honeysuckle is generally safe for pets, it can cause gastrointestinal upset if ingested in large quantities.


Trumpet honeysuckle is a beautiful and fragrant addition to any garden. By following these tips for planting and caring for your trumpet honeysuckle, you can enjoy its delicate flowers and sweet nectar for years to come.