Do you have a little corner of your yard that needs something to give it some character? What about a rustic trellis? Spring is a great time to pick up free branches from people trimming their trees or cutting off limbs damaged by our wild March weather.
Once you have collected some branches the next step is to find ones the length that you want your trellis to be and connect them together with wire at the top. Next you need to brace the bottom and put some cross pieces in to give it some stability.
Here is what the basic structure for one style of trellis looks like:
Here is a close-up of the wire holding the branches to the frame. I like to use baling wire as it is cheap, easy to use and weathers to a nice color. To use it trim it with wire cutters to the size you need. Hold the branch where you want it then wrap it around and twist it with pliers until the connection is tight.
This trellis is adorned with colored glass.
The branches will shrink as they dry so make sure it’s good and snug. Tuck the ends under if there’s a chance that people will brush by the trellis; the wire is sharp.
Once you have the basic frame down you can decorate it however you like with twisted wreaths, branches etc.. To use it either attach it to an existing fence or pound two stakes into the ground then attach it to these stakes.
Have fun!
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