How to Trellis

Trellises are a great addition to any garden. They are both functional and beautiful. In addition, trellises help keep vines healthy by allowing them to grow above the ground, away from the moisture of the soil. Many varieties of creeping vegetables thrive well on trellises. The gardener, however, must ensure that a trellis is sturdy enough to support heavier vegetables and to last season after season.

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Wood is the ideal medium of choice when building a garden trellis. Pressure treated lumber works well in most climates. Woods like cedar, redwood and cypress are ideal for wooden trellises because they are naturally rot and insect repellent.

Trellises may also be made out of wrought iron or metal poles. These types of trellises may sometimes be harder to maintain because climbing plants tend to wrap themselves tightly around the metalwork. As a result, gardeners are left with woody residue after every season.

The best plants to grow on trellises include tomatoes, peas, cucumbers, melons, squash and beans. Non-bush or trellis varieties of these plants will work well on any type of trellis. Smaller fruit varieties such as acorn or butternut squashes are ideal. If fruits get too big, they may require supports such as individual hammocks.

Planting vegetables in the appropriate gardening zones will also help ensure success. A majority of plants found in local nurseries are compatible to the gardening zone. Plant catalogues have tags to inform customers which vegetables grow best where.

A well built trellis will last seasons and can grow a wide variety of creeping plants. They make growing plants and vegetables easier and add aesthetic interest to any garden.