How to Design a Split Rail Fence

The rails of a split rail fence snap snuggly into the holes on the posts.

Think back to your favorite Western movie. Cowboys lean against a split rail fence with a piece of hay in their mouth, watching the cattle graze. Split rail fences are a signature addition to any Western-themed landscaped yard. If you like a sandy yard with desert plants such as cactus and succulents, then landscaping with a split rail fence may be right for you.

Things You'll Need

• Penci
• Sheet of paper
• Tape measurer
• Stakes
• String
• Post digger

Instructions

Planning

1. Sketch a layout of the yard using a pencil and sheet of paper. Next, sketch the general contours, slopes and the desired layout for the split rail fence. Finally, sketch in the desired plants such as cactus and succulents as well as any additional decorations such as wagon wheels, cow skulls and wells.

2. Stake out the specific beds as well as the overall fence areas using stakes and string. Use a tape measure to set the stakes at 2-foot intervals to mark exactly where the fence is being placed.

3. Step back and confirm that you like the design.

4. Buy the fencing, plants and decorations and create your yard.

Fence Installation

1. Review the instructions in your fence kit and measure the distance required between posts. Mark where each post should go with a stake.

2. Dig a hole with a post digger. To use this tool, hold the blades together and stab them as deep into the ground as possible. Pull the blades apart and pull up the dirt. Repeat this process until you have a 2-foot deep hole.

3. Place the post in the hole and backfill with dirt. For added support place some large rocks against the post just below the surface. Repeat steps three and four for each post.

4. Place the fence rails into the posts by putting the rails into the rail holes. If you measured correctly the rails should snap snuggly into the holes.