Vertical Clinger-Leaper: Lemurs & Primates

Vertical clinger-and-leaper adaptation in animals represents a fascinating evolutionary strategy. Lemurs, tarsiers, bushbabies, and sifakas exhibit this behavior. These primates inhabit arboreal environments. They move vertically along tree trunks and branches. Leaping between supports is also common. Their specialized morphology is essential for clinging. It also helps in leaping across gaps. Vertical clinging-and-leaping allows them to access food. It also avoids predators in their natural habitats.

Picture this: Your garden isn’t just a flat expanse; it’s a living, breathing tapestry that reaches for the sky! That’s the magic of vertical gardening, and it’s not just a trend; it’s a revolution. More and more of us are realizing that the only way is up (in gardening, at least!). Whether you’re squeezed into a tiny urban balcony or blessed with acres, the vertical dimension offers something for everyone.

Why all the hype? Well, imagine maximizing your growing space without expanding your footprint. Think of the sheer aesthetic delight of cascading blooms and verdant foliage adorning walls and fences. And let’s not forget the environmental perks! More plants mean better air quality, reduced urban heat, and a haven for our pollinator pals. It’s a win-win-win!

Now, let’s talk about the stars of our show: the vertical clingers and leapers. These aren’t your average garden-variety plants; they’re the acrobats and adventurers of the plant world. Clingers are the daredevils, equipped with all sorts of nifty gadgets to attach themselves directly to surfaces. Leapers, on the other hand, are the more laid-back types, happy to sprawl and cascade with a little guidance and support. Together, they form a dynamic duo, bringing life and movement to any vertical space.

So, get ready to unleash your inner garden designer! This guide will dive deep into the world of vertical clingers and leapers, exploring their diverse types, the support structures they crave, and the growing considerations that will keep them thriving. We’ll also share inspiring design ideas to transform your garden into a vibrant, multi-dimensional paradise.

Decoding Vertical Clingers and Leapers: A Plant-by-Plant Exploration

So, you’re ready to unleash your inner green thumb and take your garden skyward? Awesome! But before you start envisioning your masterpiece, let’s get to know the players – the climbing and sprawling plants that will bring your vertical dreams to life. Think of this as your “Meet the Cast” moment.

We’ll break down these botanical acrobats into a few key categories, giving you the lowdown on their personalities, quirks, and needs. For each, we’ll cover the basics: What they are, how they climb, who their friends are (other plants they pair well with), and the ups and downs of inviting them into your garden. Let’s get started!

Self-Clinging Vines: Nature’s Built-In Adhesion

These are the independent types, the ones who don’t need you to hold their hand (or, more accurately, build them a trellis). They’ve got their own built-in climbing gear!

• Definition and characteristics: Self-clinging vines are the champions of the vertical world. They directly attach themselves to surfaces like walls, fences, and even trees, without needing any extra help from you. They use specialized structures to adhere – think tiny suction cups or sticky secretions.

• Examples:

  • English Ivy (Hedera helix): Ah, English Ivy. The classic, but with a warning label. It’s vigorous, adaptable, and can create a beautiful, lush green wall. However, it can also be quite invasive and grow out of control if not managed properly. So, think of it as a house guest that may never leave if you don’t set some boundaries.

  • Boston Ivy (Parthenocissus tricuspidata): Now, here’s a charmer! Boston Ivy is known for its stunning fall color, transforming walls into a fiery tapestry of reds and oranges. It’s a bit more well-behaved than English Ivy, but still needs monitoring.

• Advantages:

  • Low maintenance: Once established, these vines pretty much take care of themselves.
  • Creates a natural look: They bring an organic, untamed feel to your garden.

• Disadvantages:

  • Can be difficult to control: Their vigorous growth can become a problem if left unchecked.
  • May damage surfaces: The clinging mechanism can sometimes damage brickwork or painted surfaces.

Non-Self-Clinging Vines: The Need for Support

These are the social climbers! They need a little help from their friends (that’s you!) to reach new heights.

• Definition and characteristics: These vines are the opposite of self-clingers; they require external structures, like trellises, arbors, or wires, to support their climb. They use various methods to attach themselves to these structures, such as tendrils or twining stems (more on those later).

• Importance of selecting appropriate support: Choosing the right support is crucial for these vines. The structure needs to be strong enough to handle the plant’s weight and appropriate for its climbing style. A flimsy trellis won’t do for a heavy wisteria!

Adhesive Pads/Discs: The Power of Suction

These vines are like the rock climbers of the plant world, relying on pure grip to ascend.

• Definition and characteristics: These vines use tiny adhesive pads or discs at the end of their tendrils or stems to cling tightly to surfaces. Think of them as having built-in suction cups!

• Examples:

  • Boston Ivy (Parthenocissus tricuspidata): Yes, our friend Boston Ivy makes a return appearance! Its adhesive pads allow it to firmly grip walls and other surfaces, creating a dense, green covering.

• Advantages:

  • Strong grip: They can adhere to almost any surface.
  • Rapid coverage: They can quickly cover large areas.

• Disadvantages:

  • Can leave marks on surfaces: The adhesive pads can sometimes leave residue or marks.
  • May be difficult to remove: Once attached, they can be stubborn to remove.

Aerial Roots: Anchors in the Air

These vines are like nature’s engineers, using aerial roots to anchor themselves as they climb.

• Definition and characteristics: These vines develop aerial roots – roots that grow from the stem into the air – which they use to attach to supports. These roots act like tiny anchors, providing a secure grip.

• Examples:

  • English Ivy (Hedera helix): Once again, English Ivy proves its adaptability! Its aerial roots allow it to cling to a variety of surfaces.
  • Climbing Hydrangea (Hydrangea petiolaris): This vine is a showstopper, with its delicate white blooms and interesting texture. Its aerial roots help it cling to walls and fences.
  • Trumpet Vine (Campsis radicans): This vibrant vine attracts hummingbirds with its trumpet-shaped flowers. Its aerial roots help it climb, but be warned – it can be aggressive!

• Advantages:

  • Secure attachment: Aerial roots provide a strong and reliable grip.
  • Adds textural interest: The roots themselves can add an interesting visual element.

• Disadvantages:

  • Can be aggressive: Some aerial root climbers can become invasive if not managed.
  • May require pruning: To keep them in check, regular pruning is often necessary.

Tendrils: Grasping for Growth

Think of these vines as having little hands that reach out and grab onto anything they can find!

• Definition and characteristics: Vines that use tendrils – slender, thread-like appendages – to wrap around supports. Tendrils are like little grappling hooks that help the vine pull itself upward.

• Examples:

  • Grapes: Not only delicious, but also beautiful! Grape vines use tendrils to cling to trellises and arbors.
  • Passionflower: This exotic bloom is a showstopper, and its tendrils are essential for its climbing success.

• Advantages:

  • Versatile: They can climb a variety of structures.
  • Relatively lightweight: Tendrils don’t add much weight to the plant.

• Disadvantages:

  • Requires adequately sized support structures: The tendrils need something to wrap around that’s the right size.

Twining Stems: The Art of the Spiral

These vines are the ballerinas of the plant world, gracefully spiraling their way to the top.

• Definition and characteristics: Vines that climb by spiraling their stems around supports. They twist and turn their way upwards, creating a visually appealing effect.

• Examples:

  • Japanese Wisteria (Wisteria floribunda): Oh, Wisteria! Its cascading blooms are breathtaking, but this vine needs serious support. Its twining stems can become incredibly heavy.

• Advantages:

  • Creates a visually appealing spiral effect: The twisting stems add a unique aesthetic element.

• Disadvantages:

  • Can be slow to establish: It can take time for the stems to fully twine and secure themselves.
  • Requires sturdy support: The weight of the mature vine can be significant.

Rambling Roses: Cascades of Blooms

These aren’t your average, upright roses. They’re ready to sprawl and climb, filling your garden with romance.

• Definition and characteristics: Roses with long, flexible canes that can be trained to climb. They’re not true climbers, but their long canes can be guided up walls, fences, and trellises.

• Examples:

  • Various Rosa species and cultivars: There are countless varieties of rambling roses to choose from! Look for varieties that are known for their long, flexible canes and disease resistance. Some popular choices include ‘Cecile Brunner’, ‘Albertine’ and ‘Rambling Rector’.

• Training techniques: The key to rambling roses is training! You’ll need to tie and guide the canes to the support structure as they grow.

• Advantages:

  • Classic beauty: Roses add a touch of timeless elegance to any garden.
  • Fragrant blooms: Many rambling roses have a wonderful scent.

• Disadvantages:

  • Requires regular pruning and training: To keep them looking their best, rambling roses need regular attention.
  • Can be thorny: Handle with care!

Scrambling Shrubs: Arching Grace

These shrubs bring a touch of wild beauty to the vertical landscape, cascading their colorful branches.

• Definition and characteristics: Shrubs with long, arching branches that can be trained to climb or cascade. They’re not true climbers, but their flexible branches can be guided to create a vertical effect.

• Examples:

  • Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea spp.): These tropical beauties are known for their vibrant bracts (modified leaves that look like flowers). They can be trained to climb walls and fences.

• Training techniques: Like rambling roses, scrambling shrubs need regular pruning and support to keep them in shape.

• Advantages:

  • Colorful: Bougainvillea’s bracts come in a rainbow of colors.
  • Versatile: They can be grown in containers or in the ground.

• Disadvantages:

  • May require regular pruning: To maintain their shape and prevent them from becoming too unruly.
  • Can be sensitive to cold: Bougainvillea is best suited to warm climates.

Other Leaping Plants: Embracing the Sprawl

Sometimes, you have plants that aren’t exactly climbers, but with a little encouragement, they can create a beautiful vertical display.

• Description of plants that, while not true climbers, can be trained with support to create a vertical effect. These plants have a sprawling habit, but with some strategic pruning and support, they can be coaxed into a more vertical form.

• Examples:

  • Bougainvillea: It is worth repeating its versatility – with some support, even a shrub can become a star in your vertical garden!

Now you have a first view of the possibilities! Let’s get building!

Building the Framework: Essential Support Structures for Vertical Growth

So, you’ve got the climbing bug (pun intended!) and are ready to unleash some vertical magic in your garden. But hold your horses, partner! Before you just stick a vine in the ground and hope for the best, let’s talk about the unsung heroes of vertical gardening: support structures. Think of them as the scaffolding that allows your green dreams to reach new heights – literally! Choosing the right support is key not only for the plant’s health but also for the overall look and feel of your garden. So, let’s explore the world of trellises, arbors, and more, figuring out which one will be the perfect match for your clingers and leapers.

Trellises: Classic Vertical Elegance

Ah, the trusty trellis! It’s like the LBD of vertical gardening – always in style and incredibly versatile.

• Types and Materials: You’ve got your classic wood trellises, which bring a natural, rustic vibe to the garden. They are charming but keep in mind that wood can rot over time, so choosing weather-resistant options is key. Then you have metal trellises, which are often more durable and can handle heavier vines. Plus, they come in all sorts of cool designs! Finally, there are plastic trellises, a budget-friendly option that’s lightweight and easy to clean. However, they may not be as sturdy or aesthetically pleasing as wood or metal.
• Installation Tips: Proper anchoring is crucial. You don’t want your trellis to topple over in the first gust of wind! Sink those posts deep into the ground, and use sturdy hardware to attach the trellis to a wall or fence, if that’s your plan.
• Suitable Plants: Clematis just love trellises, and they will reward you with their gorgeous blooms. Climbing roses look stunning trained up a trellis, creating a romantic and fragrant display. And let’s not forget passionflower, with its exotic and intricate blooms that are sure to be a conversation starter.

Arbors: Gateway to Greenery

Ready to make an entrance? An arbor is like a VIP pass to a magical garden experience.

• Design Considerations: Think about the size and shape of your arbor. A grand, imposing arbor can create a dramatic focal point, while a smaller, more delicate arbor can add a touch of whimsy. Placement is also important. Consider where people will be walking and how the arbor will fit into the overall flow of your garden.
• Plant Selection for Arbors: A cascading wisteria is a classic choice for arbors. Just be sure to get a sturdy arbor – wisteria can get heavy! Grapes are another great option, providing both shade and delicious fruit. For a touch of elegance, try climbing hydrangea, with its delicate blooms and lush foliage.
• Maintenance: Regular pruning is key to keeping your arbor plants healthy and well-shaped. Also, check the structural integrity of the arbor regularly, making sure that it’s still sturdy and secure.

Pergolas: Shady Retreats

Picture this: a warm summer day, a gentle breeze, and you, relaxing under a pergola draped in lush greenery. Pergolas are the ultimate in outdoor living, providing shade, creating a focal point, and adding a touch of elegance to your garden.

• Benefits of using Pergolas: Pergolas provide shade from the sun, making them a perfect spot for relaxing or entertaining. They also create a beautiful focal point in your garden, adding architectural interest and visual appeal.
• Planting Ideas for Pergolas: Vines with fragrant blooms are perfect for pergolas. Imagine sitting under a wisteria-covered pergola, surrounded by the sweet scent of its flowers! Honeysuckle is another great option, attracting hummingbirds with its sweet nectar.

Walls: Living Tapestries

Why settle for a boring old wall when you can transform it into a living tapestry? Walls provide a fantastic opportunity to create a vertical garden, adding texture, color, and interest to your outdoor space.

• Preparing Walls for Climbing Plants: Before you start planting, make sure the wall is clean and in good condition. Seal any cracks or holes to prevent damage from moisture. If the wall is painted, consider using a primer to help the vines adhere. You might also need to install a trellis or other support system to help the vines climb.
• Suitable Plants for Walls: Self-clinging vines like Boston ivy are perfect for walls, as they can attach directly to the surface. Climbing hydrangea is another great option, with its delicate blooms and lush foliage.
• Potential Issues: Be aware that some vines can damage walls over time, so it’s important to choose the right plants and take preventative measures. Also, be prepared for regular maintenance, such as pruning and cleaning.

Fences: Green Boundaries

Turn that boring old fence into a living work of art! Fences provide a natural support for climbing plants, adding privacy and visual interest to your property.

• Using Fences as Support: Fences provide a ready-made support structure for climbing plants. Simply plant your vines near the base of the fence and let them climb!
• Plant Selection for Fences: Climbing roses look stunning trained along a fence, creating a romantic and fragrant border. Morning glories are a classic choice, with their vibrant blooms that open in the morning sun. Clematis is another great option, with its diverse range of colors and flower shapes.

Wires/Cables: Minimalist Support

Looking for a sleek and modern look? Wires and cables offer a minimalist approach to vertical gardening, allowing your plants to take center stage.

• Installation Techniques: The key to using wires and cables as support is tension. Make sure the wires are pulled tight to provide a stable surface for the plants to climb. Use appropriate hardware, such as turnbuckles and eye bolts, to tension the wires.
• Suitable Plants for Wires and Cables: Grapes are well-suited for wires and cables, as their tendrils can easily grip the thin supports. Climbing vegetables, such as beans and peas, are another great option, providing both food and beauty. Light vines with delicate foliage also work well, creating a graceful and airy effect.

Cultivating Success: Growing Considerations for Thriving Vertical Gardens

Alright, green thumbs! You’ve got your clingers and leapers picked out, your supports installed, now let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of keeping those babies happy and healthy. Think of this section as your vertical garden’s wellness guide. Neglecting these points will turn your vibrant vision into a sad, droopy mess, and nobody wants that!

Sun Exposure: Finding the Light Balance

Sunlight: it’s basically plant food, right? But just like us, plants can get a sunburn! Knowing your plant’s light needs is crucial. Is your chosen vine a sun worshiper, a shade seeker, or somewhere in between?

• Full Sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight): Think of Mediterranean beauties like Bougainvillea or Passionflower, that love basking in the sun.

• Partial Shade (3-6 hours of direct sunlight, preferably morning sun): Clematis and many climbing roses do well in partial shade, appreciate a little break from the harsh afternoon rays.

• Full Shade (Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight): For shady spots, consider Climbing Hydrangea or some varieties of English Ivy.

What happens if you get it wrong? Too much sun, and you might see scorched leaves. Not enough, and your plant might get leggy and refuse to bloom. Nobody wants a non-blooming climbing rose!

Soil Type: The Foundation of Growth

Imagine building a house on a shaky foundation. Not good, right? Same goes for plants and soil. Most climbers prefer well-draining soil amended with compost. Compost is your secret weapon; it improves drainage, adds nutrients, and generally makes your soil a happy place for roots. For the specific plants, different plants like different foods.

Watering Needs: Hydration Harmony

Watering can be tricky. Overwatering is like drowning your plant in love (too much!). Underwatering? Well, that’s just plant neglect! The Goldilocks principle applies here: not too much, not too little, but just right.

Deep watering (saturating the soil deeply and less frequently) is generally better than frequent, shallow watering. Avoid overhead watering, which can promote fungal diseases. Stick your finger an inch or two into the soil, if it’s dry, it’s time to water. If it’s damp, hold off.

Pruning: Shaping and Maintaining

Pruning isn’t just about making your plants look pretty (although that’s a bonus!). It’s about keeping them healthy, encouraging blooms, and controlling their size. Think of it as a haircut and a spa day all in one!

The type of pruning depends on the plant. Some climbers bloom on old wood (last year’s growth), so you’ll want to prune them after they flower. Others bloom on new wood (this year’s growth), so prune them in late winter or early spring. Do a little research before grabbing those shears!

• Heading cuts encourage bushier growth
• Thinning cuts remove overcrowded branches and improve air circulation

Invasive Species: Guarding Against Unwanted Guests

Okay, let’s talk about the bad guys of the climbing world: invasive species. These are plants that are so vigorous they can take over your garden (and your neighbor’s), choking out native plants. They’re like that guest who shows up uninvited and never leaves.

English Ivy and Japanese Honeysuckle are two common offenders. Before planting, do your homework and make sure your chosen vine isn’t on the “naughty” list. Fortunately, there are usually native alternatives that offer similar benefits without the invasive tendencies. Choose these!

Designing with Height: Aesthetic Considerations for Vertical Gardens

Okay, folks, let’s get vertical! We’ve talked about what to plant and how to support it, but now it’s time for the fun part: making it look absolutely fabulous. Vertical gardens aren’t just about saving space; they’re about turning your garden into a living work of art. So, grab your design hats and let’s explore the secrets to a visually stunning and functional vertical oasis. We’ll be dishing out tips, tricks, and ideas that will have your neighbors green with envy – pun intended!

Vertical Gardening: Integrating Greenery into Design

Think of your garden as a blank canvas, and climbing plants are your artistic medium. The possibilities are as limitless as your imagination!

• Softening Hardscapes: Got a brick wall that’s a bit too harsh? Let a climbing rose cascade down it like a floral waterfall. Concrete patio feeling cold? A lush green wall can add warmth and life. It’s like giving your hardscapes a big, cozy hug.

• Adding Privacy: Nosy neighbors cramping your style? Climbing plants are your green superheroes. A strategically placed trellis covered in dense vines creates a natural privacy screen that’s far more charming than any fence.

• Creating Focal Points: Want to draw the eye to a specific area? Train a vibrant trumpet vine to climb over an archway or pergola. It’s like putting a spotlight on your garden’s best feature.

• Crafting Visually Stunning Displays: Don’t be afraid to mix and match! Combine different textures, colors, and heights to create dynamic displays. Imagine a clematis intertwined with a climbing hydrangea, creating a symphony of blooms and foliage. Don’t underestimate what the ‘jungle’ style may do!

Green Walls/Living Walls: Vertical Ecosystems

Ready to take your vertical game to the next level? Green walls, also known as living walls, are like vertical ecosystems, bringing nature right to your doorstep.

• Benefits and Challenges: These incredible structures not only look amazing but also purify the air, insulate your home, and provide habitats for beneficial insects. However, they also require more maintenance than traditional vertical gardens. It’s a commitment, but the rewards are well worth it.

• Plant Selection: When choosing plants for a green wall, think small and sturdy. Compact, drought-tolerant plants like succulents, sedums, and herbs are ideal.

• Maintenance: Green walls require regular watering, fertilizing, and pruning. You’ll also need to monitor for pests and diseases. Think of it as having a high-maintenance pet that breathes fresh air and looks incredible.

Privacy Screens: Living Barriers

Need a bit more seclusion in your outdoor space? Climbing plants are your natural privacy experts, creating living barriers that block unwanted views and create a sense of tranquility.

• Blocking Unwanted Views: Say goodbye to awkward encounters with the neighbors! A dense wall of evergreen vines like ivy or climbing fig will create an impenetrable barrier, giving you the privacy you crave.

• Creating a Sense of Seclusion: Transform your backyard into a secret garden with strategically placed climbing plants. Think of it as building a fortress of foliage, a place where you can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

• Evergreen Vines: Evergreen vines like Star Jasmine or creeping fig (Ficus pumila) provide year-round coverage, ensuring your privacy is protected no matter the season.

• Dense Foliage: Look for plants with dense foliage, like Boston Ivy or Virginia Creeper, to create a thick and impenetrable screen.

Aesthetics: Color, Texture, and Form

Now, let’s talk about the art of vertical gardening. It’s all about playing with color, texture, and form to create visually stunning displays.

• Color and Texture Combinations: Don’t be afraid to experiment with contrasting or complementary colors and textures. Pair the smooth leaves of a climbing hydrangea with the delicate tendrils of a passionflower for a captivating contrast. Use this wisely to create an accent, contrast, and appeal.

• Creating Depth and Dimension: Use plants of different heights and forms to create a sense of depth and dimension. Plant tall, slender vines alongside bushy shrubs to add visual interest. The more diverse, the better!

Creating Focal Points: Drawing the Eye

Want to highlight a specific area of your garden? Climbing plants are your spotlight, drawing the eye to entrances, arches, or garden structures.

• Highlighting Specific Areas: Frame your front door with a climbing rose arch, or create a dramatic entrance to your patio with a wisteria-covered pergola. It’s like adding a touch of magic to your outdoor space.

• Bold Colors, Unusual Textures, Dramatic Forms: Use bold colors, unusual textures, or dramatic forms to create eye-catching focal points. A vibrant bougainvillea cascading over a wall will instantly grab attention, or a climbing fig artfully placed can do the trick.

Adding Texture and Interest: Visual Feast

Vertical gardens are all about creating a visual feast, layering different textures, forms, and colors to create a dynamic and layered effect.

• Combining Different Types of Climbing Plants: Don’t limit yourself to just one type of plant! Combine different climbing plants with varying textures and growth habits to create a truly unique display.

• Foliage, Blooms, and Berries: Select plants with interesting foliage, blooms, or berries to add visual appeal throughout the year. Think about incorporating plants with seasonal interest, like colorful fall foliage or winter berries.

So, there you have it, my friends! With a little creativity and planning, you can transform your garden into a vertical paradise, a living work of art that’s both beautiful and functional. Now go forth and get vertical!

Beyond the Basics: Related Techniques for Enhanced Verticality

So, you’ve got the vertical gardening bug, huh? You’re already picturing those climbing roses cascading over your fence and that Boston Ivy turning your bland wall into a fall masterpiece. But hold on, there’s more! Let’s dive into some seriously cool techniques that take vertical gardening to a whole new level. Think of these as the bonus rounds, the secret sauce, the… well, you get the idea!

Espalier: Artful Training

Alright, picture this: a fruit tree growing perfectly flat against a wall. It’s not magic (though it kind of looks like it). It’s espalier, and it’s been around for centuries! This isn’t your grandma’s garden trick; it’s an art form.

Definition and History

Espalier (pronounced es-PAL-yay) is the ancient art of training plants, usually fruit trees or woody shrubs, to grow in a two-dimensional plane. It’s like giving your plants a haircut and yoga session all in one! Its roots trace back to medieval Europe, where it was used to grow fruit in small, enclosed spaces, often near castle walls. Talk about resourceful, right?

Techniques for Espaliering Plants

Now, how do you actually turn a regular shrub into a living piece of art? It involves a little bit of pruning, a little bit of tying, and a whole lot of patience. Here’s the lowdown:

• Pruning: This is key! You’ll need to regularly prune new growth to encourage the plant to grow in the desired shape.
• Tying: Use soft ties to gently secure branches to a support structure, like wires or a trellis.
• Guiding: As the plant grows, carefully guide the branches into your chosen pattern. Think of it like plant-based origami!

Suitable Plants for Espalier

Not every plant is born to be an espalier star. You need something that’s relatively flexible and can handle some serious pruning. Here are a few rockstars in the espalier world:

• Fruit Trees: Apples, pears, and peaches are classic choices. Plus, you get fruit!
• Shrubs: Pyracantha (firethorn) offers beautiful berries and evergreen foliage.
• Vines: Grapes can be espaliered, creating a stunning and fruitful display.

So, next time you’re at the zoo, take a closer look at those lemurs and bushbabies. You’ll now know that their incredible leaping abilities and upright posture aren’t just for show—it’s a whole lifestyle! Who knew there was so much to learn from these vertical acrobats?