My favourite way to support climbing plants is using custom-built timber trellises because they're sturdy, long-lasting, and can be tailored to the exact needs of the plant and the space. Over the years, I've found that the key to a successful support structure is understanding the growth habits of each climber. For example, star jasmine needs a frame with thinner horizontal rails it can grip onto, while something heavier like a wisteria needs a much stronger structure with reinforced posts anchored into the ground. I always use rot-resistant hardwood and make sure there's enough airflow around the plant to reduce disease. Choosing the right location is critical too. If the trellis is up against a wall, I leave a gap of around 10 centimetres to stop mildew building up in the shade. After over 15 years of experience, I've learned that the small details like post depth and rail spacing make all the difference.
One of the best examples I can give is a garden I worked on in the Hills District where the client wanted a natural privacy screen using climbing roses. Based on my horticultural knowledge and experience with local soil and sun conditions, I designed a freestanding trellis system that spanned the back of the property using treated pine posts with galvanised mesh panels. The roses thrived because the structure allowed great air movement and sunlight, and the mesh gave them plenty of places to latch on. Within two seasons, the entire frame was covered, giving the client the private, flowering backdrop they wanted. That outcome wouldn't have been possible without knowing exactly what those plants needed at each stage and how to build something that would last.
