DIY Trellis

Below, you’ll find a simple step by step guide to installing a DIY trellis using different methods.

DIY TRELLIS ARCH

• Experience Required: Low
• Tools Required: Protective gloves, Tape measure, Post driver
• Materials Required: Cattle panels, T Posts, Cable ties

Step 1) Measure Your Area

• Measure and mark the area, including the post positions, based on your plan.

 

Step 2) Install Posts

• Drive the T posts at least 50cm into the ground, making sure the flat side of each post faces inward.

Step 3) Bend Panels

• Position one panel and gently bend the top by hand to create an arch shape.

Step 4) Attach First Panel

• Secure the first panel to the posts using cable ties through the pre-drilled holes.
• Make sure the panel sits against the flat side of the post.

Step 5) Secure Second Panel

• Position and secure the second panel using the same method.

Step 6) Secure at the Top

• Attach the panels together at the top with cable ties.

Step 7) Train Climbing Plants

• Your cattle panel trellis is now ready to personalise.
• Add mulch around the base or begin training climbing plants up the support.

FREESTANDING TRELLIS

• Experience Required: Low
• Tools Required: Protective gloves, Tape measure, Post driver
• Materials Required: Cattle Panel, T Posts, Cable ties

Step 1) Plan & Measure

• Plan and measure the distance between your posts according to the panel size.
• Mark the exact spots where you will install each post.

Step 2) Install Posts

• Drive your posts at least 50 cm into the ground.

Step 3) Position & Secure Panel

• Position the panel and secure it to the posts using cable ties through the pre-drilled holes.

Step 4) Grow Climbing Plants

• Once your DIY trellis is ready, you can start growing your climbing plants.

MOUNTED TRELLIS

• Experience Required: Low
• Tools Required: Protective gloves, Tape measure, Level
• Materials Required: Cattle Panel, Staples / Brackets

Step 1) Mark Position

• Hold the panel against the fence or wall to plan its position.
• Always check with a level to make sure it is straight before fixing.

Step 2A) Staple to Wood

• If you are attaching to wood, simply staple the panel to the wood at the top and bottom.

Step 2B) Fixing to Brick

• If you are attaching to a brick or concrete wall, install brackets into the wall and hang the panel onto them.

Step 3) Climb Plants

• Plant your seedlings along the base of your DIY trellis and watch them grow.

Further Tips on How to Make a Trellis

• Plan your structure’s layout before planting, then plant seedlings at the base and guide them upward as they grow.
• Vertical growing helps maximize space in small gardens.
• Trellis can be used to increase privacy and divide your garden into separate areas.
• It also works well in pots and containers, making it ideal for patios and balconies.
• Many everyday items can be repurposed into a climbing frame, including old ladders, wire mesh, fencing panels, and window frames.
• Bamboo poles, timber battens, pallets, and expanding panels are affordable options for both small and large gardens.

FURTHER READING

• How to Attach a Fence Panel to a Post and Different Materials – Step by step instructions for attaching a panel to different surfaces.
• How to Cut a Fence Panel – A guide on how to cut panels easily.
• How to Paint Wire Mesh – Learn how to paint wire mesh.

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