Russian Vine - problem!

Fern4, it would probably grow in a container but not as big and lush - so it might not do a camouflage job. And there's always a good chance that it'll send roots out of the holes in the base of the container.

If you want privacy, I'd think about planting a small, lollipop shaped tree, strategically placed so neighbours can't look at you out of their windows. You can plant under it, and it will already be tallish when it goes in, so will start doing its job straight away. And you can prune or chop it down to control it. Something like a decorative malus or sorbus, or even a black elder trained to have a trunk.

 

Sorry, I see you've already had a go with the compost. But was it tasty, nourishing home-made compost, or was it the ready-meal type in a plastic bag? If there are at least some weeds there it proves there is potential. Does the spot get sunlight?

 

Thanks Madahhlia. I didn't think about it's roots escaping from the bottom of the container! I'll have a look at a malus, sorbus and black elder to see if they would fit the bill.

honeybunny.. what's growing in the pot next to the russian vine?

 

It was garden centre multi purpose buy 3 for 2 type compost . Yes its very dry and crumbly soil, gets sun in the mornings and in shadow of next door's hut in the afternoons. Only chickweed is growing, nothing else. Even the nettles stop short of that bit, god knows what is wrong. But if this vine dies I will dig a bigger hole and get a better compost and try again. Many thanks for all help!

 

well aren't you terribly nosey, you nosey parker you its my rather spindly looking Stag's Horn Sumach

 

I've never even heard if that....well I am a beginner! Just going for a Google.

 

Fumanchu, just a thought from a past garden of mine. Has a central heating oil tank stood there at some time in the past? I had one that leaked and the ground was totally useless for many years.

 

Nope, although there might once have been a shed there.. The vine is hanging onto dear life - not helped by the heat and me forgetting to water it.. Some bits have dried out and died but I gave it a good soak tonight.

 

It's difficult to know what could be wrong, perhaps it just needs time to settle, mean time keeping it watered.

I've got similar issues with a young Buddleia I planted early last year, they are known to grow rampantly anywhere and on any soil, but not mine. It's still only 1ft high and I'll leave it until next year, if there's no change it will get it's marching orders.