Garden Arch Trellis Project

Materials

• Choose from one of any number of materials to build your trellis. It all depends on your talent and what tools you have. Trellises can be made from 2-by-4s, metal or even all-natural pliable tree branches. Pine that is 1-by-3 or 1-by-4 in size works well for many different styles of trellises. The style of trellis you want also has a part in deciding what type of material you use for the frame.

Tools

• Some tools you may need to make your trellis include a saw, measuring tape, hammer, nails and twine. A large tub filled with water might also come in handy, especially if you are using branches or vines to form your trellis. Use green branches or vines, as they are the most pliable. Build a frame first and then wrap the vines around it. Grape vines work well.

Styles

• Styles of trellises are as diverse as the people that build them. A simple trellis can be used up against a wall or fence to support the plants. An arch trellis can have a curved top or square top. Choose whether you want your trellis to be a part of your garden or an entryway into your garden. Decide whether you want to put plant boxes on the sides of your trellis to plant more flowers or to build it so that it acts as a bench for guests to sit on.

Basic Construction

• To start construction on your arch trellis, measure how large you want it -- height, width and depth. Cut your frame pieces as necessary. Build the top and then attach the side pieces. When cutting pieces for the legs, make sure to cut them about 2 feet longer than you really want. The excess is what you will bury in the soil and give the trellis support. Strong support is necessary, especially once the climbing plants grow over it and get heavy.