DIY Network

Trellis Training Trellis Training From "Fresh from the Garden" episode DFFG-122

Training vining plants has a number of advantages. Climbing vegetables such as pole beans, tomatoes, cucumbers, melons, and peas all benefit from growing up stakes, tepees or trellis. Not only will you save space by tying or propping up the crops, but you’ll also find them easier to harvest when the time arives....

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	Figure A
	Figure B

• The best time to put up trellises and other supports is at planting because the roots haven’t formed yet so you don’t have to worry about disturbing them. Climbing vines require stout, sturdy supports if they are planted to grow vertically.

• There are many different items and materials that can be used to create trellises, and depending on the materials used, vertical supports make attractive additions to your garden. Common organic materials include bamboo (figure A), and peeled logs. For a contemporary look, you can use wrought iron, lathe, or lumber.

• You can use tepees (figure B), a-frames, stakes, string or wire cages to train your vining plants. Remember that the structure must be sturdy so that it does not fall over from the weight of the plants. Also be sure not to place the trellis where it will shade other vegetables.

• You can adapt trellises to your garden design or get creative and find your own ways of training vegetables to grow vertically. You should do some research to find out what material and configuration will work best for the plants in your garden.