Trellis Buying Guide

Some quick tips on trellis materials and styles

Let's get to the point: You want a trellis for your garden but you're not sure which type would be best. With choices ranging from metal trellises to wood and vinyl, arch trellises to fan- or obelisk-shaped trellises, you definitely have a wealth of options at SimplyTrellises.com - and that's not even including our garden arbors section. So to help you in your decision, here are some of the practical and aesthetic benefits of the different garden trellises available on our site.

Trellis Materials

When choosing between wood (including cedar), vinyl, copper, and iron trellises, the type of plant(s) you'll be growing should be foremost in your mind. The weight of perennial climbing vines can overwhelm a trellis that's not large or sturdy enough to last through year after year of growth. If you plan to grow grapes, a climbing rose bush, wisteria, or other plants like these, we recommend a strong, well-anchored trellis.

Most of the Low-maintenance and weather-resistant, vinyl trellises are made from PVC that won't fade, crack, or split. With lattice trellises made from vinyl, you may wish to look for latticework with spacing that's conducive to the climbing style of your chosen plant, e.g. narrower or wider lattice patterns. (Also, if you don't like the white color of your vinyl trellis, there are plastic paints and vinyl dyes available that may or may not work. Speak with a professional painter if you're concerned about damaging your trellis.) As for Copper trellises will acquire a verdigris patina as they age. Trellis Styles

In general, a vinyl trellis is a good fit for a traditional garden in a country or cottage style. A wood trellis looks at home in a variety of garden styles, including contemporary, Victorian, or even medieval. An iron trellis would greatly enhance a Gothic or Mediterranean landscape of exotic flowers or sprawling vines, while a copper trellis, especially as it ages, evokes the character and charm of the rustic style. However, style is always a matter of personal taste, and any one of our garden trellises would make a lovely addition to your home, patio, or garden, whatever style it may be.