April 09, 2023 3 min read

How To Choose The Right Trellis Netting For Your Climbing Plants

Custom garden trellis support structure made with emt conduit and maker pipe clamps

Trellis netting is a versatile and essential tool for gardeners who want to maximize their plant yield while minimizing their growing space. But with so many different types of trellis netting available, it can be challenging to know which one is the best fit for your specific needs. Here are some things to consider when choosing the right type of trellis netting for your plants.

 

    Plant Type

    Tomato plants grabbing onto emt conduit trellis structure

      The first thing to consider when choosing the right type of trellis netting is the type of plant you will be growing. Different plants have different growth patterns, and some will require a more robust and supportive trellis netting than others.

      For example, vining plants like tomatoes and cucumbers need a sturdy and supportive trellis netting that can withstand the weight of their fruit. On the other hand, plants like beans and peas are lighter and more delicate and can be supported by a lighter trellis netting.

       

        Mesh Size

        Metal fencing mesh

          The size of the mesh in your trellis netting is also an essential consideration. The mesh size determines how much support the plant will receive from the trellis netting and how easy it will be for you to access and harvest your plants.

          A smaller mesh size will provide more support for your plants but may make it more challenging to access and harvest your produce. A larger mesh size will be easier to access and harvest but may not provide enough support for your plants.

            Custom plant trellis structure with plastic fencing attached to the pipes

              Trellis netting can be made from a variety of materials, including plastic, nylon, and metal. Each material has its pros and cons, so it's essential to choose the material that will work best for your needs.

              Plastic trellis netting is affordable, lightweight, and easy to install, making it an excellent choice for beginner gardeners. However, it may not be as durable as other materials and may need to be replaced more frequently.

              Nylon trellis netting is more durable than plastic and can last for multiple growing seasons. It's also softer and less likely to damage delicate plants. However, it is more expensive than plastic and can be more challenging to install.

              Metal trellis netting is the most durable option and can last for many years. It's also the most supportive option, making it an excellent choice for heavy vining plants. However, it's the most expensive option and can be more challenging to install than plastic or nylon.

               

                Installation Method

                Small tomato plant supported by trellis cage in garden bed

                  The installation method of your trellis netting is another critical consideration. Some types of trellis netting are designed to be attached to a support structure, while others are freestanding and can be moved around as needed.

                  If you have a small garden space, a freestanding trellis netting may be the best choice, as it can be easily moved around to maximize your growing space. However, if you have a larger garden and need a more stable support structure, it may be a better choice to build your own custom support structure and attach trellis netting to it.

                   

                    Cost

                    Money growing inside of garden bed

                      The last consideration for choosing the right trellis netting is cost. The cost will depend on the material, size, and durability of the netting, as well as the size of your garden and the number of plants you're growing.

                      Plastic trellis netting is the most affordable option, while metal trellis netting is the most expensive. However, investing in a more durable and supportive trellis netting can pay off in the long run by increasing your plant yield and reducing the need for frequent replacements.

                       

                      Conclusion

                      Proud gardener standing next to their cucumber yield

                      In summary, choosing the right type of trellis netting for your plants requires careful consideration of several factors, including the type of plant, mesh size, material, installation method, and cost. By taking these factors into account, you can select a trellis netting that provides the necessary support for your plants while also being easy to access and harvest.

                      Remember, trellis netting is an investment in your garden, so it's worth taking the time to choose the right type for your specific needs. With the right trellis netting, you can maximize your growing space and reap the benefits every harvest.