I'm hoping to find something that will stay semi attractive year round (not so interested in bare branches all over my fence unless it is truly spectacular) to cover an ugly chain link fence. I do plan to landscape around the perimeter so this would be a backdrop for other plantings. If there are flowers or berries or something else to make it eye catching that would be a bonus as the other plantings could be simpler except for some accents. This is a family backyard too, with kids and pets so nothing too poisonous. Any ideas?
Also, I looked up ivies...a lot are evergreen up to zones 5 or 4. Maybe look in the plant files at some ivies you like, and see if they'll work for you. Hope this helps.
I don't know if this would work for you, but how about bamboo? For that same purpose, I'm ordering some native bamboo "Arundinaria gigantea" that is also native to zone 6a (where I'm located) from Missouri Wildflowers Nursery located in Jefferson City, MO. "Good wildlife cover. Remains green in winter. It will not spread into areas that are mowed regularily." It's listed under grasses.
I don't know how economical it would be for you depending on the length of your fence. I'm using different shrubs/plants to cover different sections to add variety.
You might also consider a non-native species that better fits your needs and taste.
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