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Arbor & Trellis Care


Landscaping is a large part of your homes curb appeal. Arbors and trellises enhance your property and the look of your lawn or garden. If you have an arbor or trellis, it is a wise idea to inspect them from time to time, keeping them in good repair.

Panel, Arch, and Obelisk Trellises
Trellises come in many shapes and materials, and most are designed to support climbing plants and vines. A trellis should also look appealing without any growth on it, which is why many have leaf shapes, scrolls, or other decorative enhancements. Because many trellises hold annuals, when autumn arrives, it is a good idea to remove the old, dead growth off the structure. During this time, it is also a good idea to inspect your trellis for damage.

Iron, Wood, Copper, and Vinyl Most trellises made of wood, copper, and iron need some seasonal treating in addition to removal of dead growth. If your wood trellis is painted, check for chips and cracks in the paint. If it is stained, look for wear and color fading. This is especially important as winter changes into spring. If your trellis is copper, chances are it will show age with a verdigris patina with each passing season. Most people find this attractive. Cast iron trellises may be treated with sealant to further weatherproof them, but always check the owner documentation for proper usage.

Functional and Display Arbors
If you have an arbor that also should be inspected as the seasons change. Arbors are usually made for display, but can also support plant growth. Display arbors should be inspected for weathering, wear, and structural stability with each season.

Arbors that support plant growth are quite attractive during the warm months, but bring additional duties in cooler ones. The sides of your arbor should be inspected and cleaned periodically. Lattice patterns can be popular nesting places for birds, especially when the arbor has lots of growth.

Birds, Bees, and Weathering
Don't forget to clean and inspect the top arch and crossing of your arbor. Pergolas and gables can also be places where birds build nests. You may even come across a bee or wasp hive, too, so use caution. If you have had a couple years of flowering plants growing on your arbor, this is a very real possibility, especially on wood arbors.

In addition to cleaning, painting, and staining your arbor when needed, make sure that hinges and handles on arbor gates or doors are in working order. Household oil is good for lubricating them, and a common rust remover and rust proofer will keep metal parts looking good and working well. Also, if you have vine growth, look for areas where the vine growth might have dislodged or moved wood pieces in your arbor.