Planting Vine Arches

Site the arch form in an area that receives the recommended sunlight amount for the specific vine variety. Anchor freestanding arches with 12-inch or longer stakes so the arch doesn't blow over in high winds or fall under the weight of the mature vines.

Prepare the soil around the base of the arch before planting. Most vine types require moist, well-draining soil. Work a 2- to 3-inch layer of compost into the planting site and till in a balanced, slow-release fertilizer, using the package-recommended amount for the planting area size.

Plant the vine seedlings around the base of each arch leg. Set them in the ground at the same depth they were growing at in the nursery pots. Spacing varies depending on the vine type, but a spacing of three to six inches is usually sufficient.

Water the vines one or two times per week so the top six inches of soil remains moist. Most vines require one inch of irrigation or rainfall per week.

Twine the vines onto the arch support when the main stem reaches a sufficient length. Vines climb by either twining around the support structure or by sending out tendrils that wrap around the support. Wrapping the vine tip around the support one or two times is usually all that's necessary to set the vine to climbing on its own.

Guide the vine tips as they grow up the arch so they provide full coverage. Use cloth plant ties to hold the vines in place until they naturally climb in the desired direction.

Pinch back the tips of the vines to the topmost bud once they reach the top of the arch. Pinching stops further vertical growth and encourages lateral vines, which results in even arch coverage.