You need to choose vining plants for brick walls with care. Ivy growing on brick walls of historic houses has indeed caused damage because the mortar was not as strong back then as it is in modern times. When vining plants are removed from the brick walls of these older homes, it can damage the fragile mortar because as the ivy climbs, its roots are embedded into any available crack or crevasse to allow it to gain a foothold and continue climbing. Though modern mortar is sturdier, you still should examine your brick carefully to make sure there are no cracks or any other damage before planting a vining plant. Get to know the different varieties and which are likely to cause harm and which varieties will not. The best vine for you will also depend on the look you are trying to achieve. If you are looking for something practical and pretty, Betty suggests a fruiting vine such as a kiwi or grape plant. If it's florals or a sense of romantic nostalgia you’re after, consider a climbing rose or English Ivy. Note that English Ivy is an evergreen that prefers a shady, moist environment. English Ivy produces a high-fat berry that, while toxic to humans and livestock, is an important food source for a variety of birds. If you are looking to hide imperfections in your brick, fast-growing self-climbing plants such as Boston Ivy, Jasmine, or Virginia Creeper may be just what you need.
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