High Achievers – Growing Vertically on an A-Frame
Most vegetables in the gourd family, like cucumbers, pumpkins, melons, and squashes, are quick to take off. They’re fast-growing, ground-hugging creepers by nature, but given the chance, they’ll climb enthusiastically, wrapping their wiry tendrils around just about anything they can reach.
Training these vigorous growers up a simple A-frame trellis makes the most of vertical space and helps keep the plants healthier too, with better air circulation and easier access for pollinators. Plus, you won’t find yourself stepping over trailing vines every time you water the garden!
This method is a great fit for backyard gardens of all sizes, whether you’ve got generous garden beds or are working within tighter spaces. Growing upwards can free up valuable soil below for companion plants or additional crops.
As fruits begin to swell, especially on heavier varieties, they may need a little extra support. A sling made from old nylon tights or soft fabric offcuts can be gently tied to the frame to cradle the fruit during its final weeks of ripening. It’s a great way to reuse materials and avoid strain or breakage on the vines.
The beauty of the A-frame lies in its simplicity and flexibility. It’s light enough to move around the garden with the seasons and works well in a crop rotation plan. You can also adjust the height to suit what you’re growing by stretching out the legs further. Both sides of the trellis are accessible for training vines and easy harvesting.
Vertical growing isn’t just space-saving. It’s practical, productive, and a satisfying way to keep your garden tidy and thriving.
How to build a Vertical A-Frame Trellis
Materials you’ll need
- 2 x 1.2m 40 x 18 dressed pine
- 4 x 1.8m 40 x 18 dressed pine
- 16 x 50mm corner brace sets (4 sets of 4)
- 12 x 16mm screws
- 2 x 75mm hinges
- 50mm x 50m x 1.2m flower mesh
- U nails
- String or rope
TIP: Of course, upcycle wherever possible. If you have an unused children’s swing-set, the frame can be repurposed for a large vertical trellis on steroids.
Method
Step 1: Cut each 2 x 1.2m short lengths exactly in half, making 4 pieces of 0.6m lengths overall.
Lay out wood into 2 large sandwich board frames. Use long 1.8m lengths for the uprights and shorter 0.6m lengths forming the top and bottom. Measure the lower horizontal so it sits some 20cm from bottom of the upright to form ‘legs’ that lift the frame off the ground.
A set square will help ensure perfect alignment. Use screws included with the corner brace sets (ensuring supplied screws are no longer than the thickness of the wood, otherwise use 16mm screws to be safe) to secure each corner of the frame in place. Drill pilot holes first.
Flip frame over and repeat. Offset the brackets so they don’t hit the screws from the other side.
Step 2: Lay the two frames head to head and attach the hinges, flat side of the hinge against the wood with a gap between the two frames of approx 5mm. Drill pilot holes then screw hinges in place.
Step 3: In situ, lay the wire mesh over the frames and use wire cutters to cut to shape. Secure mesh with U nails.
Step 4: Finally drill holes suitable for chosen rope or string, approx 150mm from each ‘foot’. Determine intended gradient of the A-frame before threading through the holes and tying off the string. This is to keep the feet at a preferred distance apart so they don’t widen or become unstable. Tie off, or repurpose a button or toggle for fun.
As seen in NZ Lifestyle Block Magazine, written by me!
