Chain-link fences make strong supports for trellises and plants.
Although you can install a trellis next to a chain-link fence, doing so isn't necessary if the purpose is to provide a structure for vining, climbing plants. Gardeners generally use the fencing itself to trellis a broad range of landscape plants and edible plants. You can attach trellis materials such as wooden lattice next to fence posts if you don't like the chain-link look. But this can make it more difficult for you to prune vines and climbers. Does this Spark an idea?
Placing a Trellis Next to Chain-Link
Attach a long length of lightweight wooden lattice, such as the kind that screens the bottoms of raised porches, to the posts of chain-link fences with U-bolts and to the fence links with twisted wire. If vines and climbing plants will grow up the trellis, keep in mind that they will likely wend their way through the links of the fence as well. This can make pruning a bit more difficult.
A series of smaller, decorative wood or wrought iron trellises can also be attached to a chain link fence for support and screening. If placed a few feet from the fence, they need to be well anchored in the ground to avoid leaning when vines become heavy.
Benefits of Attaching Trellis to Fence
Aside from screening yards and hiding what some consider an unsightly, utilitarian look, lattice or other trellis materials attached to chain-link fencing can increase home protection. It is easy for trespassers to climb chain-link fencing due to the toeholds its links provide. The Rick's Custom Fencing & Decking website notes that trellising materials attached to a fence can make it taller and harder to climb. It adds that growing thorny plants such as climbing roses, Oregon grape and blackberries further helps deter intruders.
Trellising Plants Directly on Chain-Link Fencing
Flowering vines, climbing rose bushes and vining vegetables receive good support and provide lush, colorful screens when they grow up chain-link fencing. They also save planting space by growing vertically instead of sprawling across the garden. "Texas Gardener" magazine says that vertical gardening is easier on the back and helps reduce fruit and foliage diseases. It adds that "Nothing hides a chain-link fence better than a crop of pole beans."
Vining and Climbing Plants
Ornamental choices for trellising include annuals and perennials. Annuals, such as morning glories and sweet peas, can quickly cover a chain-link fence with foliage and color. But aside from needing to be replanted each growing season, they leave a trellis or fence completely exposed in winter. While some herbaceous perennials die back to the ground in winter, the branches of woody perennials such as grapevines, roses and honeysuckle remain in place unless pruned. For year-round color and screening, The Penn Fencing Inc. website says vining evergreens, such as Persian ivy, may be a good choice.
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