The Art and Science of Trellised plants: Vertical gardens and Beyond
Trellising, the practice of supporting plants with structures, is a horticultural technique as old as cultivated gardens themselves. From the humble bean pole to elaborate espaliered fruit trees, trellising offers a multitude of benefits, transforming gardens from sprawling horizontals to dynamic vertical spaces. This comprehensive guide delves into the world of trellised plants, exploring their advantages, the diverse range of suitable species, and the techniques for successful cultivation.
Why Embrace Trellised Plants?
Trellising isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s a practical approach to gardening that enhances plant health and yield.
In urban gardens and smaller plots, trellising is invaluable. It allows you to grow more plants in a limited area by utilizing vertical space. Vining vegetables like cucumbers, beans, and peas, when trellised, produce significantly higher yields than their sprawling counterparts.
By lifting plants off the ground, trellising improves air circulation and sunlight penetration. This reduces the risk of fungal diseases and ensures even ripening of fruits and vegetables.
Enhancing Plant Health and Accessibility
Trellised plants are less susceptible to soil-borne pests and diseases. The elevated position keeps foliage and fruits away from damp soil, minimizing rot and decay.
Harvesting becomes easier and more comfortable. Picking fruits and vegetables at eye level eliminates the need for bending and stooping, reducing strain on the back and knees.
Improved air circulation promotes stronger stems and healthier foliage. Plants are less crowded, reducing competition for resources.
Creating Aesthetic Appeal and Privacy
Trellising can transform a plain wall or fence into a living tapestry of greenery and flowers. Climbing roses, clematis, and honeysuckle create stunning vertical displays.
Trellises can be used to create privacy screens, dividing garden spaces and shielding patios from prying eyes.
A well-designed trellis can add architectural interest to a garden, serving as a focal point and enhancing the overall aesthetic.
The success of trellising hinges on selecting plants that naturally climb or can be trained to do so.
Vining Vegetables
Cucumbers: These prolific vines thrive on trellises, producing straight, clean fruits. Vertical growth prevents cucumbers from rotting on the ground.
Beans (Pole Beans): Unlike bush beans, pole beans are vigorous climbers that require support. Their vertical growth habit maximizes yield and simplifies harvesting.
Peas (Climbing Varieties): Sweet peas and other climbing varieties produce tendrils that cling to trellises, creating a beautiful and productive display.
Tomatoes (Indeterminate Varieties): Indeterminate tomatoes continue to grow and produce fruit throughout the season. They require sturdy trellises or cages for support.
Melons (Smaller Varieties): Smaller melons, such as cantaloupes and watermelons, can be trellised with proper support. Slings or hammocks may be needed to support the weight of the developing fruit.
Squash (Vining Varieties): Some vining squash types do very well on a strong trellis.
Flowering Vines
Clematis: These elegant vines produce stunning flowers in a wide range of colors. They are ideal for covering walls and fences.
Climbing Roses: Romantic and fragrant, climbing roses add a touch of classic beauty to any garden. They require sturdy support and regular pruning.
Honeysuckle: This fragrant vine attracts hummingbirds and butterflies. It is available in various colors and varieties.
Passionflower: Exotic and captivating, passionflower produces unique flowers and edible fruits.
Morning Glory: These fast-growing vines produce vibrant, trumpet-shaped flowers.
Wisteria: A vigorous vine that produces cascading clusters of fragrant flowers.
Fruit Trees and Shrubs
Espaliered Fruit Trees: This ancient technique involves training fruit trees to grow flat against a wall or fence. It maximizes sunlight exposure and creates a visually appealing display.
Grapes: Grapevines require sturdy trellises for support. They produce abundant fruit and create a beautiful canopy.
Blackberries and Raspberries (Trailing Varieties): Trailing varieties of these bramble fruits benefit from trellising, which keeps the canes off the ground and simplifies harvesting.
First time trelliser. I feel like I did it all wrong
Types of Trellises and Support Structures
The choice of trellis depends on the type of plant, the available space, and the desired aesthetic.
Simple Trellises
Bamboo Stakes and Twine: This simple and inexpensive option is suitable for lightweight vines like peas and beans.
Wire Mesh: Readily available and versatile, wire mesh can be used to create various shapes and sizes of trellises.
Netting: Plastic or biodegradable netting provides support for climbing vegetables and flowers.
Freestanding Trellises
A-Frame Trellises: These triangular structures are sturdy and versatile, suitable for a variety of climbing plants.
Arches and Arbors: These elegant structures create a focal point in the garden and provide support for flowering vines.
Teepee Trellises: These conical structures are ideal for pole beans and other climbing vegetables.
Wall-Mounted Trellises
Lattice Panels: These decorative panels can be attached to walls and fences, providing support for climbing plants.
Espalier Frames: These specialized frames are designed for training fruit trees and shrubs.
Horizontal Wires: Running horizontal wires along a wall or fence provides a simple and effective support system.
Techniques for Trellising Plants
Training plants to grow on trellises requires patience and attention to detail.
Early Training
Begin training plants when they are young and pliable. Gently guide the stems towards the trellis and secure them with soft ties or clips.
Regularly check and adjust the ties as the plant grows to prevent stems from being constricted.
Pruning and Maintenance
Prune climbing plants to encourage branching and maintain their shape.
Remove dead or diseased foliage to prevent the spread of infection.
Provide adequate water and fertilizer to support healthy growth.
Supporting Heavy Fruits
Use slings or hammocks to support the weight of heavy fruits like melons and squash.
Tie the fruit-bearing stems to the trellis to prevent them from breaking.
Considerations for Successful Trellising
Sunlight and Air Circulation
Choose a location that receives adequate sunlight for the chosen plants.
Ensure good air circulation around the trellis to prevent fungal diseases.
Trellis Strength and Stability
Select a trellis that is strong enough to support the weight of the mature plants.
Secure the trellis firmly to the ground or wall to prevent it from toppling over.
Soil and Watering
Prepare the soil with compost and other organic matter to improve drainage and fertility.
Water plants regularly, especially during hot and dry weather.
Pest and Disease Control
Monitor plants for signs of pests and diseases.
Use organic pest control methods whenever possible.
Trellising is a rewarding gardening technique that offers numerous benefits, from maximizing space and yield to enhancing plant health and aesthetic appeal. By choosing the right plants, selecting appropriate trellises, and employing proper training techniques, you can create a thriving vertical garden that provides beauty and abundance.
