How to Build a Tripod for Climbers

The tripod will look quite rustic and barren until the climbers are established.

Tripods can be formal, made to a Classic design, or they can be made from more natural-looking rustic poles. The former are better where they are still partly on show when the climber is in full growth. The latter, in spite of their informal charm, are more suitable for carrying heavy, rampant climbers that will eventually cover them completely. More formal designs can be bought complete, ready to be installed in the garden, but for a more satisfying result, try making one for yourself. A rustic-pole tripod is much more basic, and can easily be constructed by most gardeners.

Things You'll Need

• 3 poles, medium heights (4 to 6 feet)
• Post hole diggers
• Concrete
• Nails
• Wire netting

Instructions

1. Prepare the area in which the tripod will be installed. Weed and clear the area of sticks and rubbish. Cut out any large running roots that can’t be tracked back to the source. After preparing the area, level and smooth the soil.

2. Position three posts in the ground. The distance apart will depend on the height. Balance distance apart and height to get a good shape. You can drive the posts into the ground, but the tripod will be more secure if you dig holes at least 2 feet deep.

3. Insert the posts in the holes, and pack the earth back in. Fill the holes with dry-mix concrete.

4. Nail the pieces on first. Then cut them to the right length. Alternatively, cut to length, and then drill holes in the appropriate places before nailing to the poles.

5. Nail cross-pieces between the posts. These will not only help support the plants, but also give the structure rigidity. Rails about 15 to 18 inches apart should be sufficient for tying in stems.

6. Wrap a layer of wire netting around the structure to support for self-clingers. The plants will soon hide it.

7. Choose climbers. Although any type of climber can be grown up a tripod, self-clingers would not be so good because there is not enough flat surface to which they can attach themselves. Tripods are ideal for carrying two or more climbers at once. If possible, choose plants that flower at different times. Alternatively you could choose two that flower at the same time but look particularly well together.

8. Plant the climbers in and around the tripod. Avoid the area close to the poles, as the earth here may be hard or replaced with concrete. Dig in well-rotted organic matter first.

Tips & Warnings

• Many climbers are invasive, so train them well.