Easy Trellis Design Ideas with an Asian Flair

Crossed Bamboo Poles

• Perhaps the most basic trellis is one of perpendicularly crossed bamboo poles in a square or rectangular overall shape. Just fastening a row of bamboo poles at right angles across another row of bamboo poles, however, does not automatically make an Asian-styled trellis. The secret is in the lashing. Always use black, waxed cord, and wrap the cord according to traditional lashing styles for the most authentic effect.

Woven Split-Bamboo Trellis and Screen

• Split bamboo works well for a trellis that also can serve as a privacy screen. Split bamboo can be purchased already split or made at home using a sharp knife. Make a square frame of whole bamboo poles, and then fasten the split bamboo pieces, woven basket-style, across it. Tying the junctions with black cord finishes the trellis. Mount the trellis on two larger bamboo or wooden poles, or attach the trellis perpendicularly to a fence or wall wherever you need a screen.

Moon Gate Trellis

• Not too many objects are more Asian than a moon gate. You can make your own trellis version for a focal point between distinct areas of your garden by tying bamboo poles together vertically over shorter, horizontal poles to make a rectangular screen. When everything is securely lashed, use something circular to trace and cut out a circular “moon” on the screen -- centered between the top and bottom of the trellis. Have at least two vertical poles on each side of the marked circle before cutting or you risk seriously weakening the trellis.

Framed Trellis

• For an elegantly framed trellis, sink two posts into the ground to serve as the sides of the frame. Then top the pair of posts with a large, horizontal beam so that the beam ends protrude about 2 feet past the posts. If you cut the ends of the beam at an angle and position them with their longest part facing upward, you will get a distinctly Asian look. Make a simple trellis of whichever style you prefer to hang within the frame, and then paint all the wooden parts glossy red or black to complete the Asian theme.

Trellis Turned Pergola

• Take advantage of two framed trellises, set several feet apart, to create a pergola by topping them with large-diameter bamboo poles fastened to the beams on each side. Training vines up each trellis and allowing them to creep over the bamboo bridges the space between the trellises. Use the floor area as your very special outdoor sitting room or informal tea house .