Plant Support Structures

Flat lattice
Often used to define a space or give a sense of privacy, flat lattices can be freestanding or anchored to a wall or posts. They're often relatively easy to move around if you want to try out different effects. Be sure to choose a trellis strong enough to support the weight of the growing plant. Several styles of trellis exist: wood, metal or wrought iron. It's up to you to choose what best suits your garden style.

Stakes
In some cases, a simple wooden or metal stake is all that's needed, placed in the soil when the seeds are planted or when the plant is put in the ground. A straight stake or circular support, known as a plant support ring. As the plants grow, use string or strips of fabric, loosely tied, to keep them upright.

Arches
Both practical and aesthetic, the garden arch is often a key decorative element. Its style, size and location must be adapted to your garden. Most often made of metal or wood, arches are treated to withstand the elements. Although they may look very bare at first, once plants and flowers have grown up around them, the arch will quickly come to life.

Obelisks
Both functional and decorative, these structures add a strong vertical element that can serve as a focal point in the garden. Make sure the structure is tall enough to support the type of plant you want to grow. Circular or square, made of wood or metal. The main purpose of the tripod is to prevent the plant from moving away from the root and bending.

Screens
Screens offer a simple solution for enlarging a garden by dividing the space into different zones. Growing climbing plants on one or more screens can also be a great way to create privacy in your garden or to protect a patio from the gaze of neighbors. Opt for evergreen climbing plants to create a decor that will delight you in winter and summer alike.

Rope
If you have a lot of plants that need support, like tomatoes, a braid is probably the quickest and easiest way to provide support. Simply use a rope or twine stretched at different levels between two stakes at opposite ends of the row. The plants will then grow between the woven string.

Branch tepee
Bamboo canes make inexpensive and interesting tepees for the vegetable garden. Also ideal for supporting sweet peas. Quick to install, they are almost invisible when covered with climbing plants.