We built a pergola on our deck with the intention of growing an ivy or another vine for summer shade that could be cut back to allow sun n the winter. I just realized I could use hops plants to do this, which would be awesome!
My dilemma is that the deck is a good 12ft off the ground, and the pergola is another 8ft high. Would growing from the ground below be the best long term (would they make the ~20ft climb and also spread out horizontally?), or should I use large pots on the deck? Ideally I want them to grow vertically up the pergola and then horizontally across. I'd cut it back every fall to allow sunlight to shine into the house.
Picture of pergola attached.
My dilemma is that the deck is a good 12ft off the ground, and the pergola is another 8ft high. Would growing from the ground below be the best long term (would they make the ~20ft climb and also spread out horizontally?), or should I use large pots on the deck? Ideally I want them to grow vertically up the pergola and then horizontally across. I'd cut it back every fall to allow sunlight to shine into the house.
Picture of pergola attached.