Trellis and Arbor Plans/Kits

By Tim Carter
©1993-2010 Tim Carter

Summary: Building a trellis or lovely arbors can take inspiration from some great design idea sources. A garden trellis or garden arbors can be purchased in kit form, or some arbor plans or trellis plans may be found from the sources listed here. These garden structures can be built in varied materials to suit your landscape.

Trellis and Arbor Plans / Kits

If you want a specialized topic, then try trellises and arbors! You would think that there would be an enormous amount of variety, sources of plans, etc. about these cool patio and garden structures. There aren't as many as you might think.

Fortunately, the sources that are out there have some fine designs. The neat thing about a trellis is that you can create just about anything and it will suffice. The trellis is simply a light-weight structure that is used to filter sunlight. Of course curved brackets, diagonal or crossing lattice work, and mixing different species of wood can really add a wonderful finishing touch.

If you are serious about building a trellis, I suggest you visit a local garden center or bookstore. Page through landscaping and garden books. Often there are photos of gardens that contain a trellis or arbor. The article may be about something else entirely. However, you may get an idea from the photo that you can adapt and modify for your trellis. You know the old saying, "Why re-invent the wheel!"

Here is where to start your trellis / arbor plan search:

California Redwood Association
Department TR7
405 Enfrente Drive
Suite 200
Novato, CA 94949

Send $1.00 to this address and you are going to get the most magnificent 12 page color idea book, Redwood Landscape Architecture, you have ever seen. In addition, they will send you a very cool trellis/shade shelter pamphlet plan, Redwood Shade Shelter. It has 3D drawings, details, material list, and instructions. You can't beat this deal for $1.00!

What I like about this plan is that it will stimulate your ideas. You can easily see how you can modify, expand, elaborate a trellis or shade shelter for yourself after you look at this pamphlet. The color booklet has no less than 5 awesome photos of trellises and arbors that will also help you create your own structure. Send for these items today. don't forget to tell them you want both publications.

Trellis and Arbor Kits and Ideas:

The following sources offer trellis and arbor kits. I suggest that you call them immediately and ask for a color catalogue or pamphlet. You will get some very swell ideas.

Wood Magazine
800-848-0213

They have an awesome Victorian Arbor. It evidently disassembles for winter storage.
Smith & Hawken
800-776-3336

They have a trellis / arbor kit.
Gardener's Eden
800-822-9600
They also have a trellis / arbor kit.
Jackson & Perkins
800-292-4769

They tell me that they have an arbor kit as well. I couldn't get a picture before this Bulletin went to print.
Southern Serenity
888-226-4075
Your Public Library
If you have a large public library there is a great chance that they have back issues of Popular Mechanics or similar DIY magazines. I know that I have seen trellis plans in these in the past 5 years. As with all things, invest the time and you will get great results!

An Alternative to Wood

If you don't want the maintenance of wood, you can purchase a vinyl trellis. I know of one company that makes a variety of products. The vinyl products are available in different colors, styles, and designs.

Call this company to get the scoop on maintenance free vinyl trellises.