Southern California May checklist

Grow a tower of flowers

Summer-blooming vines, grown up a narrow structure, add color and height to even the smallest gardens.

Choose a showy subtropical perennial, like the Mandevilla shown here; or morning glory, climbing snapdragon (Asarina), or another annual vine. Before planting, set in place a sturdy structure with enough height and heft to support your vine (adding a structure later is difficult).

As shoots grow, train them to the support with self-gripping Velcro, plant tape, or twist ties.

More: How to build a rustic tipi for climbing plants