Build a Garden Trellis

If you’ll be using netting to support your climbing plants, use wire to create the trellis' skeleton, supporting the plastic netting that will, in turn, support your plants as they climb. To attach the wire, wrap it tightly around one post, and then staple it securely at the top using a staple gun. Then run the wire over to the other post, wrap it around the post and staple it there.

Helpful Tip

Your knots must be very tight to make sure the trellis stays solid and steady. Have a firm grip by using a pair of pliers.

As you hang your plastic netting, start by spacing S-hooks every 12" to 15" across the wire between the posts. Hang the netting from the hooks, just like you'd hang a shower curtain. Staple the netting to each post with your staple gun, pulling it taut as you go. Move downwards, stapling every 2" to 3" until you reach the bottom of each post.

If you’re using wood slats for the frame, measure the distance between the posts with a tape measure. Use a circular saw to cut 1” x 2” lumber to fit lengthwise between the posts. Attach each end of these pieces to one of the support posts, using a power screwdriver and wood screws. Measure down the post 6” with a tape measure and then mark this location with a pencil. Then attach another 1” x 2” piece horizontally between the posts at the pencil marks. Repeat this until you reach the bottom of each support post.

Safety Alerts!

Before using a circular saw follow all manufacturer instructions on operation and safety.

Do not wear loose clothing, over-sized gloves, jewelry or any accessories that can get caught within the spinning blades or other moving parts of a saw or another power tool. Secure long hair.

Next, cut 1” x 2” lumber to fit vertically and support the horizontal slats you just installed. The distance between the top and bottom horizontal slats will determine the length of these pieces. The number of these pieces that you cut will depend on your trellis’ overall size. Place the first of these vertical pieces by measuring out from one of the posts 6” and attaching it to the top and bottom slats with nails or wood screws. Measure out 6” from the first vertical piece and install the next one. Repeat until you have all vertical pieces installed. The vertical and horizontal slats together should form a latticework of 6” squares across the gap between posts.

Determine the size of your trellis and use a tape measure to mark it out on the wall. Drill holes in the wall so that you can screw L-hangers in (three for the top rail and three for the bottom rail). If you have vinyl or wood siding, be sure that the L-hangers will be fixed to 2” x 4” studs inside the wall. Use a stud finder to locate the studs. If you will be attaching the trellis to brick or concrete, drive the hangers directly into the wall.

Remember to buy hangers long enough that they will hold the trellis several inches away from the wall. This will give you access to that area of the trellis when you’re caring for your climbing plants.

You will need 1” x 2” lumber for all the pieces except the top and bottom rails, which require 2” x 2” lumber. Cut the lumber to the width and length you measured, using a circular saw.

Working on a large flat surface, nail or screw the two outer pieces to the top and bottom rails. Next, attach the 1” x 2” horizontal rails from behind. Use two nails or screws at each joint for rigidity. After all rails are attached, then attach the vertical pieces, again using two nails or wood screws per joint. The vertical and horizontal slats together should form a latticework of 6” squares.

Finally, hang the trellis on your outside wall by the L-hangers. This allows for easy removal for maintenance.

Congratulations! Welcome to the wonderful world of vertical gardening. Enjoy your new trellis.