How to Build and Design a Grape Arbor Arch Trellis

Choose a suitable location in full sun to install the grape arbor trellis.

Dig post holes. The holes need to be spaced evenly apart, one for each of the four posts. Depending on your design, the posts can be in a square, rectangular or more circular shape. The holes need to be about 2 feet deep with a diameter slightly smaller than the posts.

Divide the gravel equally between the four holes. (You can use sand instead of gravel if you choose.) This added texture provides more stability for the posts.

Insert each post into a hole. If necessary, use a screwing motion to get the post into the hole until it hits the bottom.

Drill three holes into the face of each post about 6 inches down from the top. The three holes need to be spaced evenly apart. Put an eye into each hole (for the screws), then insert the screws into the eyes.

Run the wire through the first row of eyes. Thread the wire through all four posts in the first row of eyes. Pull the wire tight and wrap it around the end of the last post until it is secure, then cut. Repeat this with the other two rows of eyes. These wires will create the top of the trellis.

Stain or paint the trellis if desired. You can match it to your house color, or paint it green to blend in with the grape vines. You can also stencil designs onto the trellis.

Plant the grape vines at the bottom of the trellis. You can plant two for minimal coverage, with one grapevine in between the posts, directly across from the other. Four grapevines can be planted with one at each post. Use the shovel to dig the planting holes, with the depth specific to the grapevine variety. Backfill the soil around the grapevines and secure the stem to the trellis arbor with plant ties.