Are you interested in a sustainable gardening idea? If so, there is a great way to create a trellis with branches. Since it is pruning season, save some branches for the DIY project!
In this tutorial, I’ll show you how to make a trellis with branches.
The story behind the trellis with branches
At the beginning of the pandemic, there was a sense of urgency to grow food. Stores had long line-ups, limited or reduced food supply etc…
As a result, many people started building veggie gardens and getting greenhouses. It was my case and the best choice for sustainable gardening. And yes, it was a clever excuse to expand my edible gardens!!
So I planted a variety of veggies, and some needed a trellis. Again, I didn’t want to be in a lineup just for that.
What you need
- branches (Lilac branches in the picture below)
- jute twine/cotton string
- pruning shear
- gardening gloves
- eye protection (recommended)
How to make a trellis with branches
Step 1: Gather & Sort
First, gather branches in an open space. Then sort by similar-sized branches in a pile.
Next, start cutting/trimming branches that are flimsy. At the same time, remove the leaves. What you want is leaving enough branches to create the shape of a hand. So when you tie the branches together, there are many criss-cross apple sauce points for support.
Step 2: Assembling
Before you start assembling, get ten 18cm/7inch pieces of jute twine or cotton string ready. Most likely, you need more, and it’s easy to do along the way.
How to assemble
First of all, choose steady/thicker branches and insert them vertically into the soil. Most importantly, make sure they are stable as they will be the foundation of the whole structure. When they are set, tie some of the crossed parts with the strings.
Then add some branches horizontally on top of the structure. Also, tie some to the frame of the greenhouse or anything stable like a fence panel.
Now, attach some branches at different angles and upside down onto the upper frame (of the greenhouse). During the assembling, wiggle the trellis to ensure it’s stable, and tie additional spots if needed for extra strength.
Final Step: tidy up
Finally, cut all the extra length of the strings hanging from the knots for a clean look. Also, check the stability and balance of the trellis as a completion!
What do you think of the trellis made out of branches? Most definitely, my cucumbers are happy and it’s producing many fruits. Do you know who else can be happy? Children!
Many of us know that kids love to help rip off leaves, make piles, cut strings, and more! Just imagine how delighted they will be harvesting and eating homegrown food! Sustainable gardening is the way to go & win-win for everyone!
A month later…
