How Tall Should an Overhead Trellis Be?

Recommended Height for Overhead Trellis

• An overhead trellis should be at least 12 feet high. It is best to use 4x4- or 6x6-inch redwood, cedar or pressure treated posts for the primary structure. Untreated wood is not likely to survive continual outdoor exposure.

Trellis Construction

• Trellises are easy to construct. Wood is not the only material that works for trellises; fencing and strong wire can also be used.

Fuel-Saving Function

• Strategically placed overhead trellises help provide excellent shade in summer. Make sure you construct the trellis where it can provide the most shade to windows or other areas at the hottest time of day without blocking the view. An overhead trellis can also be constructed over a patio. Just take care that the sun is not entirely blocked out during the winter months.

Trellis Design

• Your trellis design should conform to the general design of your house and garden and complement the color of the house.

Recommended Vines for Overhead Trellises

• Perennial vines that climb well on overhead trellises are kiwi, honeysuckle, and clematis. Scarlet runner bean and black-eyed Susan vines are two annuals that work well on overhead trellises.