When it comes to small space farming, trellises emerge as versatile and aesthetic tools that offer both support for climbing plants and an opportunity to introduce vertical drama to your green space. Vertical gardening techniques allow you to grow more in less space, great for container gardening on balconies. Trellises are essential if you are interested in growing vining edibles such as indeterminant tomatoes and pole beans.
Choosing the Right Trellis Design
Selecting an appropriate trellis design is the first step in creating vertical interest. The most important factor to consider is size and composition. You will need a trellis at least 5 feet in height that will be sturdy enough to hold the plant once it reaches full size.
The form factor of the trellis should also fit the growing habit of the plant. Typically, trellises fall into 4 basic form factors: Teepee, a-frame, and lattice trellises. Let’s look at each of these to discuss what is the most appropriate trellis for the plant.
Teepee Trellis
A teepee trellis is just what it sounds like: a trellis that comes to a point at the top, like a teepee. These trellises have a circular base with 3 or more base supports that make contact with the soil. Because these trellises are slender, they work very well in containers needing trellises. You can buy these in 4 to 8 feet heights, but they are easy to make to suit your needs.
This trellis type is appropriate for lightweight-high density climbing plants like pole beans, peas, and small cucumber varieties.
A-frame Trellis
The a-frame trellis consists of two grid trellis frames that are joined at the top. These trellises are typically shorter, around 4 feet high. Because they have 4 points of contact with the soil, they are extremely sturdy, but tend to be larger in size. Because of this, they may take up too much space to be practical for a small space or balcony garden. However, if you had 2 rectangular planters, you could put one side in each planter, creating a pleasant, shaded arch, that will allow you to grow heat-sensitive plant, like lettuce, underneath.
This trellis type is appropriate for melons, winter squash, and cucumbers.
Lattice Trellis
Lattice trellises are best suited for plants that spread while they grow. Because these trellises have only 2 base supports, they typically need to be securely fastened to a wall, raised bed or other sturdy structure. Many of these come with stakes to pound into the ground, but if your plant is too top heavy, this technique will not be sturdy enough to support the plant as it matures.
The grid format allows for the plants to be staked to the trellis at multiple points and is perfect for tomatoes, cucumbers, and smaller varieties of vining squash, like mini pattypan squash.
Building Your Own Trellis
Building a bamboo trellis for a balcony garden is a sustainable and relatively simple DIY project. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to construct a bamboo trellis that offers a natural and eco-friendly aesthetic, perfect for creating an organic or tropical vibe on your balcony:
Materials Needed:
Bamboo Poles: Purchase bamboo poles of similar thickness and height. The number of poles depends on the size of your trellis. Ensure the bamboo is treated or cured to resist pests and decay.
Jute Twine or Natural Fiber Rope: Choose an eco-friendly twine or rope for securing the bamboo together.
Saw: A saw suitable for cutting bamboo.
Measuring Tape: To measure and mark the dimensions accurately.
Steps:
1. Determine the desired dimensions of your bamboo trellis based on your balcony's size and the space available.
2. Mark the locations for the vertical and horizontal bamboo poles.
3. Use the saw to cut the bamboo poles to the desired lengths.
For a teepee trellis, cut three vertical poles, approximately 5 feet in length.
For a lattice trellis cut four vertical poles, approximately 5 feet in length, and cut five horizontal poles to desired width.
4. For a teepee trellis, insert the bamboo sticks into container and pull them together at the top. Use jute twine or natural fiber rope to tie the joints where the vertical poles intersect. Wrap the twine securely to create a stable structure.
5. For a lattice trellis, lay the vertical poles evenly spaced on the ground. Lay the horizontal poles across the vertical poles. Use jute twine or natural fiber rope to tie the joints in a crisscross pattern, making a figure eight around the joint.
6. Position the bamboo trellis against the balcony railing or attach it to a wall or other supporting structure. Ensure it is stable and secure.
7. If you want to enhance the longevity of the bamboo and alter its color, you can apply a sealant or stain. Make sure to choose an eco-friendly product.
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