If you have ever been enchanted by how whimsical and beautiful vine plants look as they twist and climb, then you are not alone. Climbing plants you can grow on your property often completely change the look of a plain fence or a patio corner, turning them into lush, living features. The problem is: They don’t know when to stop.

Some vines grow fast and far, which is not ideal if you are working with a limited space. That’s where the pot comes in. Potted plants can still give you the green drama without swallowing everything in their path. A pot keeps the roots in check, which means the size and direction of the plant are in your control.

The best part is that you can move the potted vines around to catch the best sunlight or shield them from harsh weather. And if you love changing up your space, it’s a win-win situation — mobile greenery that also fits your style. On a practical note, containers also help with pest and disease control, lifting vines off the ground, and keeping soil conditions consistent.

Just planting a vine in a pot is not enough; it needs to be properly set up. To help your plants thrive and grow in their containers, opt for sturdy ones made of terracotta, ceramic, plastic, metal, or wood. As long as the pot has drainage holes and enough room for your plant to grow, you are on the right track.

You must fill the pot with quality soil (preferably not the soil from your backyard) and opt for a well-draining potting mix if you’re planning to plant something like passionflower (Passiflora incarnata), which dislikes soggy roots. The day that you plant your climber is when you should stake its support. You can buy a simple wire trellis that gives your vine a direction to climb early, like the Vigoro Pewter Metal Pot Trellis at Home Depot, or opt for a simple wooden setup using a vine pole or lattice.

Most vines thrive in sunlight, so find a sunny spot on your deck, porch, or patio. In general, you’ll know it’s time to water when the top inch of the soil feels dry, but go easy because too much water can also drown your roots. Regularly maintain your vines by pruning them, especially if the vine starts growing toward your grill or patio furniture.

Not every vine is happy in a container, but some feel right at home. Chocolate vine (Akebia quinata) is a great fit for people who want something that grows fast and has a beautiful fragrance. However, it may pose a risk to native plants, as it is listed as invasive in some parts of the Eastern US, including North Carolina, Maine, West Virginia, and Maryland, so it must be contained and pruned to keep it from taking over your space. Black eyed Susan vine (Thunbergia alata) is another favorite among vine enthusiasts. It thrives in heat, looks cheerful through windows, and flowers nonstop in the summer. Although beautiful, this vine is another one that you won’t want escaping into your garden.

Other climbing plants that work better in pots are Clematis and morning glories (Ipomoea purpurea). Morning Glories are a classic for summer fences and look great winding up porch railings. They are easy to grow, but are labelled as noxious weeds due to how quickly the plant self-seeds and spreads in warm climates. For warmer regions like the South or Southwest, bougainvillea is a good choice, delivering bold colors and requiring only low-maintenance care. Growing climbing plants in pots offers all the beauty of climbing plants planted in the ground, but without the hassle. With the right setup, they are a budget-friendly patio addition that livens up a bare outdoor living space.