Garden Arbors

1. A garden arbor brings charm and tranquility to any garden, whether it's used as a beautiful entryway, a provider of coolness and shade, or a supporting structure for vines and climbing roses. Garden arbors are also a smart way to create additional growing space in small gardens.

2. Vinyl, metal (including copper and iron), and wood are the materials most commonly used to create arbors. The natural look of wooden arbors is appealing to many gardeners, while others enjoy the decorative leaves or scrollwork often featured on metal arbors. Vinyl arbors are attractive, lightweight, and low-maintenance.

3. Arbor styles range from the pitched roofs of gable arbors to the projecting eaves and open lattices of pergola garden arbors, the pointed arches of Gothic arbors, and the gentle curves of arched garden arbors. Arbors with planter boxes are also popular (and practical!).

4. Add arbor side wings, arbor benches, or arbor garden gates to create a lovely spot for quiet contemplation and/or conversation or to enhance the visual impact of your garden's entryway or bower.

5. Climbing roses, grapes, and vines such as wisteria and trumpet creeper are some of the plants commonly grown on garden arbors. Growing multiple plants that flower at different times will give your arbor a new look from one season to the next.

6. Remember the needs of your other plants when choosing a location for your arbor. The additional shade might cause problems for sun-loving species. Likewise, set the arbor at an angle where it will get the best sun for your climbing plants.

7. Some plants take to arbors like kids to playground equipment while others need a little encouragement and training. If your climbers look more like slumpers, try using some string or twine to help them get acclimated to arbor living.

8. If you live in a municipal area that has some strict regulations - or just have overly attentive neighbors who are defensive about their sightlines - it might be prudent to check with local authorities to see if any kind of permit is required for setting up a large arbor.

9. Some climbing plants can get extremely heavy, which is why even large garden arbors should be securely anchored. A cement foundation may sometimes be advisable. Ask your utility company about the presence of underground lines if you plan to do any serious digging.

10. Arbors can be beautiful at night, too. Consider installing a decorative post lantern or similar outdoor light with a design that complements the style of your arbor.