Lawn Guardian

Virginia Creeper Care Guide

Parthenocissus quinquefolia

vineZones 3–9nativedeer resistant

Native self-clinging vine with five-leaflet compound leaves turning brilliant scarlet in fall. Blue-black berries feed birds. Fast-growing cover for walls and fences.

At a glance

Season-by-season care

Spring

Prune to control size Early spring

Cut back overgrown areas. Remove vine from surfaces where it's not wanted (gutters, windows, rooflines).

Summer

Guide and redirect growth Throughout summer

Direct vine away from unwanted surfaces. Adhesive discs can damage paint and mortar.

Fall

Enjoy fall color Fall

Brilliant scarlet fall color is one of the best of any vine. Leave berries for migrating birds.

Ecological value

Berries are a critical fall food source for woodpeckers, thrushes, and other songbirds. Vine provides nesting sites. Fall color rivals any tree. Important host plant for sphinx moths.

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Related plants

Sources: Purdue University Turfgrass Science: Use Growing Degree Days to Better Time Your Applications · University of Missouri Extension: Cool-Season Grasses: Lawn Maintenance Calendar · University of Minnesota Extension: Pre-emergent Herbicides for Crabgrass Control in Lawns