3 Examples of Building a Garden Trellis from Reclaimed Wood

Explore creative and sustainable examples of building a garden trellis using reclaimed wood for your outdoor space.
By Taylor

Introduction

Building a garden trellis from reclaimed wood is a fantastic way to add charm and functionality to your garden while promoting sustainability. Using reclaimed wood not only reduces waste but also gives your garden a unique character. In this guide, we’ll explore three diverse examples of how to create beautiful garden trellises that can support climbing plants and enhance your outdoor space.

Example 1: Rustic A-Frame Trellis

This A-frame trellis is perfect for supporting climbing plants like beans or cucumbers. It’s simple to construct and adds a rustic touch to your garden.

Start by gathering two long pieces of reclaimed wood, about 6 feet in length, for the sides. You’ll also need two shorter pieces (about 2-3 feet) for the base and one crossbeam (4 feet) to finish the top.

Begin by marking where you want to attach the base pieces to the sides, forming an A shape. Use wood screws to securely attach the base pieces to the bottom of the side pieces at an angle. Then, attach the crossbeam at the top, securing it with screws. This will create a sturdy structure.

To finish, you can sand the wood to make it smooth and apply an optional weatherproof finish to prolong its life. This trellis can be painted or left natural depending on your garden’s style.

Notes: You can customize the height and width based on the plants you intend to grow. Adding horizontal slats between the sides can provide extra support for smaller plants.

Example 2: Vertical Slat Trellis

A vertical slat trellis is a stylish way to create a backdrop for flowering plants or vining vegetables. This design will enhance your garden’s aesthetics while being functional.

For this project, gather several pieces of reclaimed wood, ideally 1x4 inches, in varying lengths. You’ll need about 10-12 slats for the vertical components and two longer pieces for the top and bottom supports.

Start by laying out the slats vertically, spaced evenly apart. Measure the height you want (around 5-6 feet is typical) and cut the top and bottom pieces to match this width.

Using wood screws, attach the top and bottom pieces to the slats, forming a rectangular frame. For added stability, you can use corner brackets at the joints. If you prefer, you can paint the slats in a color that complements your garden.

Notes: Consider attaching the trellis to a fence or wall for additional support. This design works beautifully for climbing roses or other ornamental flowers.

Example 3: Arched Trellis

An arched trellis can create a stunning entryway in your garden while supporting climbing plants like jasmine or wisteria. This project requires a bit more effort but the results are worth it.

To begin, collect several pieces of reclaimed wood, including two long arcs for the sides (about 6-7 feet long) and a few shorter pieces for the base and top. You may want to use thinner wood for the arcs for easier bending.

Start by creating the arch shape by bending the long pieces into a gentle curve. Secure them at the base using a crossbeam or stakes to keep them stable. Attach shorter vertical supports to the sides to complete the structure.

To enhance the arch, you can add additional horizontal slats across the top. Sand and finish the wood as desired. This trellis can be a beautiful focal point in any garden.

Notes: Make sure to plant sturdy climbing plants that can support the weight of flowers as they grow. You can also add fairy lights for a magical touch in the evening.

Building a garden trellis from reclaimed wood not only contributes to a sustainable lifestyle but also allows you to express your creativity in the garden. Happy gardening!