Periwinkle.... Conclusion..... Bomb Proof....

That's started my day off with a smile, thanks FGTM I recon I must be "simple but effective" As for the trellis, a good idea as it will be tanalised and provided you don't use steel screws/nails it will last for ever. Also you can make it whatever size/shape you want. ps I made a trellis and used Stainless screws, well worth the extra cost but you'll need an electric driver. The trellis you buy in shops are often stapled and tend to rust. If you haven't an electric driver, stainless pins will be fine though your thumb may not be lol

Thanks for the advice on the trellis situation, I will let you know how it goes..

You have a good idea of making your own trellises. They'll probably last longer than bought ones. I think I'll make some aswell. They are so costly to buy, and I need quite a lot.

I agree about the vinca (periwinkle) I think minor is worse than major. Mine are now confined but still try to escape. I too prefer unmixed baskets and window boxes because they are easier to look after. I tend to plant pansies in winter, flowering when they go in in the autumn, so they flower right through the winter. They do not need dead heading when it is too cold to set seed. In the summer I prefer Begonia Sempervirens for fail safe long flowering and no worries about watering when we are on holiday. Water retaining crystals which are on offer in Aldi at the minute takes care of any longer absences, and they do not need dead heading either to ensure continuous flowering. We gave up on wooden trellis, for growing things on, a long time ago. I prefer to screw strips of wood to walls and use HDPE garden mesh.It is strong, long lasting, attractive, rot proof, UV stabilised and re-usable and is available in most diy and garden centres in 500cm or 1m widths. It is quick and light to install too. I also use it strung on free standing posts to grow sweet peas etc. happy gardening Just saw the above comments and we use stainless or brass screws and tanalised wood is a must because it will not be easy to treat once it is insitu.

Thats a good idea Scotsgran about the garden mesh, I will certainly look into that option.

Thanks for all your opinions and ideas! They are a great help.

Sounds like you are well in front with your plans,..well we have had all winter to
think about it .lol.We used battens fixed to the wall too,and good quality mesh.they are still as good after 8 years,so a good idea.I agree about Mother nature...wonderful ..enjoy !