Question: I have a large yard that is fenced in by a chain link fence. I would like to start covering the fence to give me something different to look at during the year. I am trying to find out what would be best, either some sort of ivy type vine or some sort of flowing vine. It would have to be a plant which could do well in shade or sun since I have both.

Answer: You need to decide if you want perennial vines, annual vines or a mixture of both. Among the favorites are these perennial vines: Cross Vine (Bignonia capreolata), coral vine (Antigonon leptopus), butterfly vine (Mascagnia macroptera or Stigmaphyllon ciliatum), Carolina jessamine (Gelsemium sempervirens), Confederate Jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides) and sweet autumn clematis (Clematis paniculata). Annual vine favorites include: Morning Glory, Hyacinth Vine, Cardinal Climber and Black-eyed Susan (Thunbergia alata). Of course there are also the climbing roses, wisteria and trumpet vine that you might want to consider.

I have had Confederate Jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides) on my backyard chain link fence for over 10 years growing in a shaded spot under a deciduous (Red Oak) tree in very shallow soil. In the spring, blooms are fragrant and the foliage is shiny green all year. Photos are attached.