Trellis Ideas for Boston Ivy

Arbor

• An arbor is a structure that provides some sort of overhead shade or protection, whether over a gate, a front door or a large patio. Some arbors arch over an entry gate to provide a sense of passage, while others form a shaded roof over a dining area on a patio. Because Boston ivy grows quickly, it is an ideal choice to cover an arbor when you need shade or lush greenery in a hurry.

Topiary Trellis

• A wire trellis shaped to form a sphere, cone or even an animal is a fun choice for Boston ivy. Plant your Boston ivy in the soil at the base of the trellis, and allow the ivy to grow up onto the form. Allow the ivy to cover the form, and keep ends tucked in or wrapped closely around the wire to help the ivy take on the shape of the form. Cut long shoots or tendrils back if necessary.

Fence

• Boston ivy isn't picky. If you have a fence around your yard or garden, there's no need for a trellis. Plant a few small, young Boston ivy cuttings at the base. Before you know it, your unsightly chain link, wire or wooden fence will be covered with Boston ivy's delicate, natural greenery. Boston ivy easily latches onto and climbs just about any fence, giving you a wall of green, natural beauty, as opposed to cold metal wire or hard wood.

Wall

• At 50 or 60 feet tall, Boston ivy's mature height lends itself well to tall structures. If your home, barn or business has a large, flat, uninteresting wall, cover it with Boston ivy for a calming, softening effect. Place a trellis against the wall, if you desire, or allow Boston ivy to latch onto bare walls with its gripping runners and tendrils.

Tree

• A shaded lawn takes on a junglelike quality when Boston ivy is allowed to grow up and around tree trunks. Boston ivy's grippers will send this ivy shimmying right up tee trunks with ease, trellis or not. Help your trees stay their healthiest by keeping this ivy only on trunks and out of the trees' canopies. Boston ivy is a vigorous grower that can become invasive if not kept in check.