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this is a silly question but..... I have a flat roof that I would like to put some pots on and in them some plants that will trail. If I got climbing plants, such as clematis, would they trail? If not has anyone any suggestions? I dont want ivy and ideally I would like to use perenials.

Hello Allyson,

Yes, I have seen Clematis scrambling about horizontally rather than climbing vertically so it could be an option for your flat roof. I do not think that the lack of opportunity to climb would effect the vigour.

You could also consider the following to grow in pots and trail about on the flat roof:

Origanum
Lamium
Aubretia
Cerastium

You could also consider Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum) although these are annual and would need replacing each year. But remember you will be able to use the leaves and flowers in salads.

Hope I have been of some help,

thank you so much, will give it a shot and let you know how it goes!!