Quick Tips for
Choosing Arbor Designs.
If you’re planning to design and build a
beautiful arbor in your garden, you’ll find a great
selection of arbor
designs on the internet and this site to get you started.
Which arbor design you choose will depend on a range
of factors, so it’s worth taking a little time to
consider your options.
It is always a good idea to look around and
see what other kinds of arbors people are
building. This provides you with an
understanding of what style you find interesting
and what material you are attracted too.
You should also understand the purpose of
your arbor. It can be as simple as adding
definition to your garden or it might also have
a functional purpose. These days a garden arbor
can also provide a nice place to seat, a swing
and gate.
Three things to
consider when designing and building a garden arbor:
Deciding which plants to
grow on your arbor
Many design features will depend on the type of
plants you plan to grow. Keep in mind the eventual
size and weight of the mature plant when making
design decisions.
Roses, climbing hydrangea, jasmine and sweet pea are
all perfect for growing on a garden arbor.
Heavy, woody plants like roses will require a strong
wooden arbor with a sturdy foundation.
The size of the plants will determine how you design
the trellis. Small, delicate vines will need small
trellis beams to grasp onto, while larger, bushier
plants will need wider spaces to grow into.
Choosing materials
The materials you choose for your arbor will
determine how it will look, how much it will cost,
and how much maintenance will be required in the
long term.
Natural mahogany or cedar will look absolutely
magnificent, but a composite timber material or PVC
vinyl will be less expensive and require less
maintenance.
Pressure treated lumbers are now largely unavailable
in North America and in many other parts of the
world due to health concerns.
Arbors can also be made from delicate steel and
copper, for a romantic, old-world look.
Designing the foundation
If you plan to build a large arbor, you will need to
construct an adequate foundation to keep it stable.
For example, an eight foot span arbor will require
foundation holes at least three feet deep, and the
arbor posts will need to be set in concrete.
If you live in a windy area, a secure foundation is
a particularly important feature of your arbor
design.
For more information on designing your own garden
arbor please read this article on
designing your own
garden trellis or arbor.
