The Best Garden Trellises To Support Your Plants and Add Style to Your Outdoor Space (2024)

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If you’re looking to add both height and variety to your garden, we think the Amagabeli Garden Trellis for Climbing Plants makes a stylish addition to most outdoor spaces, earning our top spot on this list. Standing about 5 feet tall, this iron trellis is perfectly sized for climbing or long-stemmed plants such as roses and clematis.

The durable iron construction, combined with a rust-proof finish, will keep it looking great for years to come. And thanks to thick and sturdy iron stakes, it offers plenty of support for plants and stays put in inclement weather. Just note that this option is best suited for decorative blooms, and might not provide the optimal support or space for growing vegetables.

We love that this unit can be placed inside a planter or used as a standalone trellis. You could even arrange several trellises side-by-side to create a fence screen in your yard. We also appreciate that it comes fully assembled and is very easy to install—simply insert the prongs into the ground or soil. The trellises are sold in packs of two or four, and they’re available in four neutral colors to match your decor.

_{Dimensions: 1 x 60 x 18 inches︱Material: Metal︱Colors: Black, butterfly-black, brown, and white︱Shape: Rectangular︱Weight: 14.02 pounds︱Assembly Required: No}

Our favorite affordable option, these small, stackable trellises from Uwioff can be inserted into a pot to provide extra support for plants. Thanks to their versatile design, they can be arranged side by side or vertically to shape your plants as desired. When stacked on top of one another, they are an ideal growing space for climbing plants and vines, effectively keeping them off the ground. Made of dark green plastic, these trellises blend in unobtrusively with any plant, garden, or yardscape. We also appreciate that the pieces connect to one another very easily, making the assembly process a breeze.

Measuring 10.2 x 6.1 inches, these mini garden trellises are significantly smaller than most of our other picks. One trellis can support only one or two plants. However, their compact size makes them a great choice for small patios, balconies, or decks. And since they don’t go directly into the ground, they can also be used in indoor planters. If you need more than four, you can also purchase these budget-friendly trellises in packs of six, and 12.

_{Dimensions: 10.7 x 6.2 x 1.1 inches (packaged)︱Material: Plastic︱Color: Dark green︱Shape: Varies︱Weight: 4.8 ounces︱Assembly Required: Yes}

Featuring a weathered paint finish, this unit creates a rustic aesthetic in your outdoor space. It’s made of iron, which is incredibly durable on the whole but prone to rusting over time. The manufacturer recommends treating the finish with matte sealant to preserve its appearance. This trellis doesn’t require any assembly; however, it needs to be mounted on a wall. Brackets are included, but additional hanging hardware is required.

The trellis is available in two sizes: the smaller version measures 47.75 x 11.5 inches, and the larger one is 70.75 x 21.5 inches. (You pay an additional shipping charge if you purchase the larger size.) Both units can be mounted almost flush with a wall, creating visual interest while saving space.

_{Dimensions: 47.75 x 11.5 inches (small), 70.75 x 21.5 inches (large)︱Material: Iron︱Color: Gray︱Shape: Rectangular︱Weight: Not listed︱Assembly Required: No}

We love the Kelly Clarkson Home Kendra Steel Obelisk Trellis because it adds both charm and function to a small space. The obelisk shape, floral design, and cast-iron finial at the top add interesting details. And since it's available in two finishes and six sizes, you can choose the one that fits your pot or planter and decor. We also appreciate its powder-coated steel finish so it will hold up to the elements.

While this trellis has so many stylish touches, there is still plenty of room for your tomato plants, and other vine or climbing plants to thrive. You can even plant flowers at the bottom while having plenty of room for vines to grow tall and all around the structure. Although assembly is required (and may require two people depending on the size), once it is put together, it is freestanding and will stand up on its own once placed in a pot, planter, or even firmly in the ground.

^{Dimensions: 60 x 11 inches︱Material: Steel︱Color: Bronze or copper ︱Shape: Obelisk︱Weight: 9.6 pounds︱Assembly Required: Yes}

For a garden trellis that can double as wall art, the Frontgate New York Botanical Garden Alix Trellis Collection is a splurge-worthy, customizable option that you can use to hang plants, or as support for plants in separate containers on the ground below. Although you will need ample outdoor wall space for it—the panels measure about 61 inches high—this elegant trellis will help create and frame an outdoor zone for entertaining. Installation is required and varies according to where you are hanging it.

This tall, decorative arch provides ample space for climbing and flowering vines while creating a unique garden entrance. Reinforced with nylon netting, it can support up to 70 pounds, making it well-suited for heavier crops such as melons and squash. The polyethylene-coated steel frame is incredibly durable and shouldn't fade or rust, or degrade in the sun. For added peace of mind, the manufacturer backs this product with a lifetime warranty.

The assembly process is fairly easy, but it’s best to have a few extra people on hand to assist. Also, this unit doesn’t come with stakes; you may want to add some staking to anchor it to the ground, especially if you live in a windy area. The trellis can also be disassembled compactly for off-season storage.

_{Dimensions: 63 x 80 x 65 inches︱Material: Polyethylene-coated steel︱Color: Black︱Shape: Arch︱Weight: Not listed︱Assembly Required: Yes}

This teepee-style trellis is crafted from durable willow wood, and its rounded shape makes it ideal for climbing plants or flowers. The peeled willow sticks are light mahogany, and the wood knots have plenty of natural variation. This product is a good bet if you’re aiming for a rustic aesthetic.

The trellis comes fully assembled and ready to use right out of the box. Both the height and length are adjustable, which means it can be expanded as your plants grow. The trellis folds up for easy storage, which is another convenient feature. To better suit your gardening needs, it's also available in two sizes: The smaller version measures 48 x 12 x 12 inches; the larger structure is 60 x 14 x 14 inches.

Although this trellis is durable enough to withstand the elements, it is fairly lightweight at 3 pounds. For that reason, it might not be the best option for supporting heavier vines and vegetables. If you intend to grow larger items, such as pumpkins or squash, consider using anchors to make the trellis more sturdy. This trellis can be placed around a plant or bush for extra support, which is another plus.

_{Dimensions: 48 x 12 x 12 inches︱Material: Wood︱Color: Tan︱Shape: Teepee (rounded)︱Weight: 3 pounds︱Assembly Required: No}

Measuring 15 x 38 x 15 inches, the trough-style planter box provides plenty of room for flowers, plants, or vegetables. It has holes at the bottom for adequate drainage. The trellis features a classical lattice design and provides the ideal backdrop for climbing vines and creeping ivy.

This unit is made of plastic, which means it’s weather- and rust-resistant but should not be used in high wind conditions, according to the manufacturer. Be sure you have a place to store it if inclement weather is expected. The plastic may not strike you as attractive as iron or steel offerings, but that’s really a matter of personal taste. It comes in four neutral colors—anthracite, brown, gray, and white—which should blend nicely with almost any yardscape. Assembly is required but is an easy and painless process.

_{Dimensions: 55.9 x 39.4 x 16.9 inches︱Material: Plastic︱Colors: Anthracite, brown, gray, and white︱Shape: Rectangular ︱Weight: 15.5 pounds︱Assembly Required: Yes}

The Sol 72 Outdoor Savannah Elevated Planter with Trellis is a great option for creating some privacy in your backyard. The classic lattice detail creates a sophisticated aesthetic and provides plenty of room for climbing plants and flowers. Made from weather-resistant embossed vinyl, this durable unit can last for years in the elements. It weighs 68 pounds, which means it can support heavier vines and vegetables and should be able to withstand heavy winds, especially if set into the ground with concrete. For added peace of mind, this product is backed by a 10-year warranty against defects.

Considering the sheer size of the unit, it’s no surprise that assembly is somewhat complex, taking one person 2 to 3 hours, according to the manufacturer. Certain tools are required: a cordless drill, hammer, tape measure, level, and shovel. You also need cement if you intend to install it in the ground permanently.

_{Dimensions: 80 x 4 x 90 inches︱Material: Vinyl︱Color: Brown︱Shape: Rectangular︱Weight: 68 pounds︱Assembly Required: Yes}

This quaint-looking trellis comes in handy for supporting climbing vines and flowers. Made of PVC and finished in white or mocha, this unit is built to withstand the elements, resisting water, fading, UV rays, and rotting. Since this trellis can support up to 50 pounds, it’s also ideal for growing heavier vined vegetables. Standing 76 inches tall, the Arrya Vinyl Trellis adds eye-catching height and texture to your outdoor space.

This freestanding trellis is staked into the ground. The included pair of L-shaped metal stakes help keep the unit sturdy. The trellis can be placed against a wall for decorative purposes, but it doesn’t come with brackets for mounting; if you want to mount it to a wall or fence, you need to purchase additional hardware. Assembly is required; however, pre-cut and pre-drilled holes speed the process along. The trellis can be hosed down with water for an easy cleanup.

_{Dimensions: 76 x 28 x 2 inches︱Material: Vinyl (PVC)︱Color: White or mocha︱Shape: Rectangular︱Weight: 12 pounds︱Assembly Required: Yes}

Final Verdict

The Amagabeli Garden Trellis for Climbing Plants is an elegant and durable choice for your garden, and it’s sold in packs of two or four for versatile configuration. If you’re on a budget or looking for something simple, the UWIOFF Trellis for Potted Plants is a small, stackable option that provides support for a few potted plants. Sold in sets of four, six, or 12, it can also be used to stake indoor houseplants.

FAQ

• What is a garden trellis used for?

  A garden trellis is ideal for keeping vining plants and vegetables off the ground. They lend height and support, both of which are necessary for optimal plant growth. Their vertical design also makes them great space savers, since they can provide plenty of room for flowers and vegetables to grow while taking up a very small footprint. With many creative uses, a trellis can also function as an entryway, privacy screen, or even a unique design element to add a bit of character to your garden.

• How do you install a garden trellis?

  A garden trellis can either be installed into the ground, a pot, or a planter. For adequate support and stability. depending on the material and style, a freestanding trellis should be driven at least 2 feet into the ground. “Another option is installing some sort of rebar post or a T-post in the ground before adhering your trellis to it,” says McKenzy Winkler, a master gardener and herb farmer. “Using metal over wood ensures that the base won't rot or crumble under the weight of the plant.” A wall-mounted trellis is affixed with brackets to keep it securely in place. Pay attention to the product description, as you may have to buy the hardware separately or need certain tools.

• What types of plants are good for garden trellises?

  Some trellises are better suited for more decorative climbing vines such as ivy, clematis, and sweet pea. Others are ideal for growing vegetables, particularly those that grow vertically. “There are many vegetables that thrive when trellised,” Winkler says. “Indeterminate tomato varieties, cucumbers, peas, beans, small melons—like the cucamelon—love to be trellised.”

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