Garden Arbor Bench Projects

Lights

• Twinkle lights or miniature Christmas strands can be strung through the lattice of a garden arbor bench for a nice effect. Choose outdoor lights if you desire to leave them in place for any length of time. Light strands can be purchased in a wide variety of colors and styles. Party centers often sell novelty lights such as chili peppers, flamingos or shamrock lights---perfect for a theme party. Hanging tea lights can be tied to the arbor bench with fishing line for a small flicker of light, while an outdoor lantern hung over the bench can provide enough light to read by.

Paint

• Personalize your garden arbor bench by staining or painting it. Paint the entire arbor and bench with a primer, then paint on images of flowers and vines. The decorative effect will allow the bench to look festive throughout the year.

Flowers and Vines

• Planting flowering vines at the base of your garden arbor bench will create a private hideaway retreat as they grow. Good choices for plants include morning glories, wisteria, clematis and trumpet vines. Miniature climbing roses are another possibility, as well as English ivy for a green retreat.

  Vines are often quick growers. After planting, watch them closely and start training them around the posts of the arbor. It generally takes a couple of seasons before the vine is fully mature, but this natural decorative affect is well worth the wait.