Can I put trellis on top of my fence?

Quick Answer

Yes, you can install a trellis on top of an existing fence to add visual interest and allow climbing plants to grow upwards. A trellis is a lightweight lattice frame that can be securely attached to the top of a wood, vinyl, or metal fence using brackets, screws, and other hardware. The trellis provides support and structure for vines like grapes, roses, jasmine, and clematis to climb up and spread out horizontally. With a trellis mounted above a fence, you can enjoy beautiful vertical greenery and flowering plants in your yard.

Advantages of Adding a Trellis to a Fence

Installing a trellis on top of a fence has many benefits:

• Creates vertical growing space – Fences provide a tall, solid backdrop for plants to climb on. Adding a trellis above increases the usable growing area for vining plants.
• Aesthetic appeal – An overhead trellis amps up the visual interest of a regular fence. It adds pleasing lines, texture, and becomes a lush green display when plants mature.
• Increased privacy – With dense foliage covering the trellis, it blocks views and muffles noise from neighboring properties for more privacy.
• Shade and temperature reduction – Vining plants grown on a overhead trellis provide cooling shade. Leaves help reduce temperatures along fence lines during hot weather.
• Habitat for birds – Songbirds often nest and perch on trellised vines overlooking fences. The foliage provides shelter and food sources for local wildlife.
• Property value boost – Attractive trailing vines and flowers on a back fence trellis can increase a home’s curb appeal and resale value.

Covering basic fencing with ornamental trellises transforms dull, flat surfaces into beautiful vertical gardens brimming with flowers and foliage.

How to Add a Trellis to an Existing Fence

Installing a trellis above a fence is a relatively easy DIY project. Here are the basics steps involved:

1. Measure fence length and height – Determine the total length of fence that will be covered by the trellis. Measure the fence height as well to buy or build a trellis of appropriate dimensions.
2. Select trellis design and materials – Wooden latticework panels are a popular choice. Alternatively, use metal or PVC framed trellises which resist rotting and decay. Opt for durable, weather-resistant woods like cedar.
3. Mark and install mounting brackets – Mark where each bracket should be positioned evenly along the fence length using a measuring tape. Use at least 3 brackets for shorter spans. Attach brackets securely using galvanized screws.
4. Paint/stain trellis – Pre-finish the trellis prior to mounting for best results. Use exterior grade paint or wood stain to protect and beautify it.
5. Attach trellis to brackets – After brackets are secured to the fence, lift up the trellis and screw it into the brackets from above. Use corrosion-resistant screws.
6. Plant and train vines – Select appropriate vines and plant them along the base of the fence. Guide stems up as they grow and gently tie them onto the trellis with plant ties.

Proper installation techniques, using sturdy brackets and hardware, will ensure the trellis remains firmly affixed for many years of vertical plant growth.

Best Plants for Growing on a Fence Trellis

Many climbing vines and flowering plants are well-suited for decorating and concealing fences with greenery. Some top options include:

• Clematis – This perennial vine has large, colorful blooms. It gracefully climbs while producing minimal foliage.
• Trumpet Vine – Featuring bright orange trumpet-shaped flowers, this hardy vine grows rapidly to cover fences.
• Honeysuckle – Fragrant, heat-tolerant honeysuckle thrives in trellises. It flowers profusely during warm months.
• Grape Vines – For edible landscaping, grape vines bear abundant fruit when grown on overhead trellis systems.
• Roses – Certain rambling rose varieties are ideal for draping fences with their dense growth and continuous flowers.
• Jasmine – This sensational vine is revered for its intense fragrance and showy white blossoms during summer.
• Climbing Hydrangea – Lush green foliage and clustered summer flowers make this woody vine perfect for trellises.
• Morning Glory – Fast-growing annual vines that produce funnel-shaped blue or purple flowers in abundance.

Proper support from a mounted trellis enables these plants to ascend vertically and generate lush flower displays along your fence line.

Trellis Design Considerations

When selecting a trellis design to affix above your fence, keep these key factors in mind:

• Fence material – Match metals to avoid rusting. For wood fences, wooden trellis panels typically look best.
• Fence height – The trellis must extend above the fence height so vines can continue climbing upward. Add 12-18 inches above the fence.
• Trellis size – Evaluate the length and height of fence that will be covered. Purchase or construct a customized trellis to fit.
• Weight load – Consider the mature size of vines to ensure the trellis can support their weight. Sturdy structures prevent sagging.
• Aesthetics – Choose trellis slat patterns and colors that coordinate well with the existing fence design for a cohesive look.
• Weather resistance – Use weatherproof, rot-resistant woods and metals so the trellis retains its structural integrity for years outdoors.

Selecting the appropriate trellis style and size for your specific fence ensures it functions properly as a vertical plant support structure.

Trellis Installation Tips

Follow these tips for properly installing a trellis above a fence:

• Use at least 3 trellis mounting brackets for a secure attachment.
• Space brackets evenly down the fence length so weight is distributed.
• Predrill bracket holes to prevent wood from cracking or splitting.
• Use exterior-grade screws to anchor the trellis brackets into the fence.
• Check that the trellis is level across the top and make any necessary adjustments.
• Seal wood trellis with waterproof finish to prevent moisture damage.
• Plant vines at the fence base and train stems up as they grow taller.
• Loosen any ties as the diameter of vines increases to avoid constriction.
• Prune vines each year to remove excess growth and maintain optimal coverage.

With proper installation and care, a fence-mounted trellis provides beautiful vertical plant growth for many enjoyable years outdoors.

Conclusion

Installing a trellis above a fence is an impactful way to enhance the appearance of any backyard or garden landscape. The addition of a trellis instantly creates new vertical space to grow vines, roses, edible crops, and other plants up rather than sideways. Almost any style of wood, vinyl, or metal fence can support a trellis with the help of secure mounting brackets. Ensuring you select an appropriately sized trellis and use sturdy hardware for attachment allows flowering vines to bloom in abundance. A well-installed trellis remains structurally sound for years while providing aesthetic and practical benefits. Drape your basic backyard fence in greenery and blossoms with a decorative trellis on top.