Trellises, Arches, and Fences

Creative Ways to Display Vining Perennials

May 26th, 2025

Guide by Scott’s Nursery Ltd.

Whether you’re a first-time gardener or a seasoned green thumb, there’s something magical about watching vines stretch skyward, burst into bloom, and transform garden structures into living works of art. Vining perennials aren’t just beautiful — they’re also practical, helping you add vertical interest, soften fences, and frame spaces with color and texture.

From quaint wooden trellises to grand iron arches and everything in between, garden supports play an essential role in how your climbing plants grow and shine. At Scott’s Nursery in Lincoln, NB, we carry a wide variety of vining perennials that thrive in the local climate — and the perfect structures to help them show off.

 

In this guide, we’ll explore:

 

  • How to choose the best vining perennials for New Brunswick gardens
  • The unique benefits of trellises, arches, and fences
  • Creative ways to use these structures to transform your space
  • Step-by-step setup instructions
  • Expert tips to help your vines flourish all season long

Ready to elevate your garden — literally? Let’s climb into the world of vining beauty.

Choosing the Right Vining Perennials for New Brunswick

Not all vines are created equal — especially when it comes to New Brunswick’s climate. Cold winters and variable summers mean it’s important to pick hardy, low-maintenance perennials that can return year after year with minimal fuss. Thankfully, there’s a beautiful variety of climbing plants that thrive in our local conditions.

Here are some favorites available at Scott’s Nursery:

Clematis

One of the most beloved climbing perennials, Clematis offers stunning blooms in every color from deep purple to creamy white. Different varieties bloom in spring, summer, or even late fall, so you can choose one (or a few!) for continuous color.

Best Support: Trellises, obelisks, or arches

 

Light Needs: Full sun to part shade

 

Tip: “Feet in the shade, head in the sun” — mulch the roots and let the vines reach for the sky.

Honeysuckle 
(Lonicera)

Known for its sweet fragrance and pollinator appeal, Honeysuckle is a fast-growing vine that adds both beauty and life to your garden. Its tubular flowers are a magnet for hummingbirds and bees.

Best Support: Arches, pergolas, or fences

 

Light Needs: Full sun

 

Tip: Train early growth upward, and prune lightly to shape each spring.

Virginia Creeper

A hardy native vine with bold green leaves that turn fiery red in fall, Virginia Creeper is great for fast coverage. While not a flowering vine, it adds dramatic foliage color and texture.

Best Support: Chain link fences or wooden fences

 

Light Needs: Full sun to full shade

 

Tip: Be mindful — it grows fast! Give it room and control spread annually.

Trumpet Vine 
(Campsis radicans)

Trumpet Vine brings drama to the garden with large, tropical-looking blooms in red, orange, or yellow. It’s vigorous — almost aggressive — so it’s best for larger gardens or sturdy structures.

Best Support: Strong fences or arches

 

Light Needs: Full sun

 

Tip: Prune hard in early spring to encourage flowering and control spread.

Climbing Hydrangea (Hydrangea anomala petiolaris)

Slow to establish, but worth the wait. This shade-loving vine has large white flower clusters and attractive bark, making it a standout in woodland or north-facing gardens.

Best Support: Brick walls, trellises, fences

 

Light Needs: Part shade to shade

 

Tip: Give it a couple of seasons to settle in — then it takes off!

These vines don’t just add beauty — they help build height, frame views, and support pollinators. For beginners, try a hardy Clematis or Honeysuckle. If you’re a more experienced gardener, experiment with combining multiple vines for a layered look.

Need help choosing the right one? Our team at Scott’s Nursery is always happy to match plants to your space, sun, and style.

Understanding Your Support Options: 
Trellises, Arches, and Fences

Choosing the right support structure for your vining plants can be just as important as choosing the plants themselves. Each type of structure brings a unique look and function to your garden — and some are better suited to certain vines than others.

 

Let’s break down the pros, cons, and best uses for trellises, arches, and fences so you can make the right call for your space.

Trellises: Compact and Versatile

Trellises are perhaps the most flexible and beginner-friendly option. They come in wood, metal, or even PVC, and can be wall-mounted or freestanding.

 

Perfect for:

Clematis, Morning Glory, Sweet Peas

Smaller gardens or containers

Framing a wall, deck, or shed

 

Pros:
Easy to install
Space-saving for small gardens
Can be moved or updated seasonally

 

Considerations:
Lighter vines only (heavy growers like Trumpet Vine may outgrow them)
May need seasonal maintenance or repainting

 

Pro Tip: Use trellises in pairs or clusters for visual balance and creative design.

Arches: Elegant Garden Entryways

Garden arches add a romantic, formal feel to your space — ideal for creating walkways, entrances, or focal points. They’re usually made of iron, vinyl, or wood.

 

Perfect for:

Honeysuckle, climbing Roses, Clematis

Pathways, garden gates, or centerpieces

 

Pros:
Dramatic and eye-catching
Functional for high-traffic areas
Supports flowering vines beautifully

 

Considerations:
Needs proper anchoring (especially in wind-prone areas)
May require more pruning to shape the arch evenly

 

Pro Tip: Plant a vine on each side of the arch for lush coverage that meets at the top!

Fences: Practical with Big Impact

A fence doesn’t just mark boundaries — it’s a vertical canvas! Whether you’re using wood, vinyl, or chain link, fences offer tons of surface area for your vines to spread and thrive.

 

Perfect for:

Virginia Creeper, Trumpet Vine, Climbing Hydrangea

Creating privacy screens

Disguising utility areas or unsightly views

 

Pros:
Ideal for vigorous, fast-growing vines
Adds privacy and wind protection
Can integrate wire, netting, or lattice for better grip

 

Considerations:
Some vines (like Virginia Creeper) attach aggressively and can damage wooden fences
Maintenance may be required to keep growth in check

 

Pro Tip: Use lattice panels or tension wire on wood or vinyl fences to give vines something to cling to without causing damage.

Choosing between these supports? Think about:

Your garden’s layout and space

Sunlight exposure

Your desired aesthetic (formal vs. wild, bold vs. subtle)

The growth habit of the vine (slow vs. fast, heavy vs. light)

 

Each structure adds personality and purpose to your garden. And when paired with the right vine? That’s where the magic happens.

Design Inspiration: 
How to Use Structures Creatively

When it comes to using trellises, arches, and fences in the garden, there’s no need to stick to the basics. With a bit of creativity, these structures can do much more than just support vines — they can transform your space, create movement and flow, and become stunning focal points that change with the seasons.

Whether you're working with a cozy backyard patio or a sprawling rural landscape, here are some ways to get inspired.

Create Garden “Rooms” with Vertical Boundaries

Just like in a home, defining outdoor “rooms” can make your garden feel larger and more purposeful. Use trellises or lattice panels to divide areas — a sitting nook here, a veggie patch there — all draped in flowering vines.

 

Try this: Two trellises with a bench in between, covered in Clematis or Sweet Peas

 

Perfect for: Small yards that need structure without bulk

Frame a Path or Entry with a Blooming Arch

Welcome guests (or yourself!) with a dramatic entrance by placing an archway over a garden path. Honeysuckle or climbing Roses can cover it in color and fragrance, creating a moment of magic every time you walk through.

 

Try this: Install an arch over a gravel or flagstone path

 

Add: Solar lights or fairy lights for evening enchantment

Use Fences to Add Layers and Privacy

Fences can be more than just barriers — they can become living backdrops. Vining plants soften hard lines and add year-round interest. Layer multiple vines for varied textures and bloom times.

 

Try this: Pair Virginia Creeper with a spring-blooming Clematis on a wooden fence

 

Bonus: Use wire grids or wood lattice to guide growth

Go Vertical in Tight Spaces

If you don’t have much ground to work with, think up. Wall-mounted trellises or standalone obelisks are perfect for small gardens, patios, or even balconies.

 

Try this: Add a trellis planter combo to your deck or apartment wall

 

Ideal vines: Clematis, small Honeysuckles, or annuals like Morning Glory

Decorative Dividers for Raised Beds and Veggie Gardens

Mix beauty and utility by integrating trellises into your edible garden. Use them as living dividers between raised beds — they help organize space and maximize growing area.

 

Try this: Trellis beans or peas on one side, Clematis on the other for off-season interest

Highlight a View or Frame a Focal Point

Direct the eye across the landscape by using structures to frame a feature — maybe a birdbath, water fountain, or your favorite flower bed.

 

Try this: Position an arch or open trellis at the edge of your garden looking out

 

Tip: Use lighter vines like Sweet Peas or Clematis to keep the view open

Whether it’s a cozy cottage garden or a modern outdoor retreat, vertical elements give your garden height, motion, and soul. They encourage you — and your plants — to dream a little bigger.

 

And remember: The team at Scott’s Nursery is always happy to help you design a space that grows with you. Just ask!

Step-by-Step Setup Guides for Trellises, Arches, and Fences

Whether you're a seasoned landscaper or setting up your first vertical support, these easy-to-follow instructions will help you create beautiful and lasting homes for your vining perennials.

How to Set Up a Trellis

Best For: Clematis, Sweet Peas, Morning Glory, Climbing Nasturtiums

 

What You'll Need:

Trellis (wood, metal, or PVC)

Garden stakes or wall brackets (if mounting)

Garden twine or plant ties

Shovel and soil amendments

 

Steps:

 

Pick the Right Spot
Choose a location with the right sun exposure for your vine — most vining perennials prefer full sun (6+ hours a day).

 

Position and Secure the Trellis
For freestanding trellises: Dig two holes about 12" deep and insert the legs. Backfill with gravel and soil or set in quick-set concrete for stability.
For wall-mounted: Attach with brackets or hooks, leaving an inch between the wall and trellis for airflow.

 

Plant Your Vine
Dig a hole 6–12" away from the base of the trellis. Amend the soil with compost, and plant at the proper depth for your specific vine.

 

Train the Vine
Gently tie young shoots to the trellis using soft twine. Avoid tight knots — stems need room to grow.

 

Water and Mulch
Water thoroughly and add mulch to conserve moisture and protect roots.

How to Set Up a Garden Arch

Best For: Honeysuckle, Roses, Clematis, Climbing Hydrangea

 

What You'll Need:

Garden arch (metal or wood)

Measuring tape, level

Quick-set concrete (recommended)

Vines and compost

 

Steps:

 

Choose the Location
Place your arch where it will create the most impact — at an entrance, along a path, or as a garden centerpiece.

 

Dig and Secure the Legs
Mark and dig two post holes about 12–18" deep. Place the arch legs in the holes, level it, then fill with gravel and concrete. Allow to cure for at least 24 hours.

 

Plant Vines on Both Sides
Dig two holes (one on each side), add compost, and plant your vines. Make sure to give each plant enough space to grow.

 

Guide and Tie Growth
As the vines begin to climb, guide tendrils toward the structure and loosely tie if needed.

 

Prune and Maintain
Regularly prune for shape, and water deeply during dry periods.

How to Use Fences for Vines

Best For: Virginia Creeper, Trumpet Vine, Climbing Hydrangea, Wisteria (with caution)

 

What You'll Need:

Existing fence (wood, vinyl, or chain link)

Lattice, tension wire, or mesh netting (if needed)

Drill, screws, or hooks

Compost, mulch, and vines

 

Steps:

 

Evaluate Your Fence
Decide whether your vine can grow directly on it (like Virginia Creeper on chain link) or if you need to add lattice or wire for grip.

 

Install Supports (if needed)
Attach horizontal wires or panels about 12–18" apart. For wood or vinyl, keep a slight gap between the fence and support to prevent damage from moisture.

 

Plant Your Vine
Dig a hole near the base of your support, amend with compost, and plant as directed.

 

Encourage Growth
Tie stems to supports loosely. Fast growers like Trumpet Vine may need little assistance — just regular pruning.

 

Maintain the Area
Add mulch, water during dry spells, and trim back any overgrowth at least once a season.

These setup tips are just the start — once the vines settle in, you’ll be amazed at how quickly they turn a simple structure into a living garden feature.

 

Looking for help choosing or setting up the right structure? Swing by Scott’s Nursery — our team is always happy to help with plant pairing, garden design ideas, and installation advice.

Pro Tips for Helping Vines Thrive

Once you’ve planted and set up your structures, the real magic happens over time. With the right care, vining perennials will reward you year after year with lush growth, colorful blooms, and a garden full of movement and texture.

 

Here’s how to give your vines the best start — and keep them flourishing.

Water Deeply and Consistently

Young vines need consistent moisture while their roots establish. Mature vines are often drought-tolerant but still benefit from deep watering during dry spells.

Best Practice: Water at the base, not the leaves

Frequency: 1–2 times per week, depending on rain and soil

Tip: A 2–3" layer of mulch helps retain moisture and suppress weeds

Feed the Soil, Not Just the Plant

Vines are hungry! Good soil nutrition supports strong growth and better blooms.

Spring: Add compost or aged manure around the base

Mid-season: Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer (e.g., 10-10-10)

Avoid: Over-fertilizing with high-nitrogen products — they can cause leafy growth at the expense of flowers

Prune with Purpose

Pruning encourages healthy growth, better airflow, and more blooms. Each vine has different needs, so know your plant’s pruning group (especially for Clematis).

Spring: Remove dead or damaged stems

Mid-season: Lightly shape for structure

Late winter (for some): Hard pruning can rejuvenate vigorous growers like Trumpet Vine

Pro Tip: Always use clean, sharp pruners and disinfect between plants.

Train Early, Tie Gently

Guide young vines early in the season to prevent tangling and promote even coverage. Most vines are good climbers, but some need a little encouragement.

Use soft ties, jute twine, or Velcro plant tape

Tie loosely — vines grow quickly and tight ties can damage stems

Check ties monthly and adjust as needed

Keep an Eye on Pests and Problems

Healthy vines are usually low-maintenance, but some pests and diseases can sneak in.

Watch for: Aphids, powdery mildew, and leaf spot

Treatment: Neem oil or insecticidal soap for bugs; prune and improve airflow for mildew

Preventative Tip: Don’t overwater, and always space plants for airflow

Bonus: Support Through the Seasons

Spring: Mulch, fertilize, prune, and tie

 

Summer: Water deeply, deadhead flowers if needed

 

Fall: Clean up fallen leaves and debris

 

Winter: Protect young plants with burlap if needed; prune woody vines in late winter

These small acts of care make a big difference in how your vines perform. Think of it as a relationship — the more attention you give, the more beauty they’ll give back.

 

Want personalized care advice for your plants? The staff at Scott’s Nursery is always here to help — in-store, by phone, or online.

Combine Structures for a 
Stunning Garden Layout

Why choose just one structure when you can mix and match for maximum impact? Trellises, arches, and fences each serve a unique purpose — and when thoughtfully combined, they can elevate your landscape design into something truly spectacular.

Here’s how to layer and link these elements for a garden that feels both purposeful and inspiring.

Create Flow with Repeating Structures

Repetition adds rhythm and cohesion to your space. Try using matching trellises along a fence line or staggered arches down a long pathway.

 

Visual trick: Repeating structures help guide the eye and make small gardens feel larger

 

Perfect for: Connecting different “zones” like dining, lounging, or veggie beds

Layer Heights for Visual Depth

Combine low, medium, and tall elements to create a sense of depth — just like a painter layers foreground, middle ground, and background.

 

Trellises: Mid-height, great along walls or paths

 

Arches: Tall centerpieces or gateways

 

Fences: Background support and structure

 

Pro Tip: Use taller vines (like Trumpet Vine) on the back fence, and smaller bloomers (like Sweet Peas) on trellises closer to the viewer.

Build a Focal Point Around a Structure

Pick one standout feature — like a vine-covered arch or an oversized lattice trellis — and build your garden layout around it.

 

Add a bench beneath an arch for a romantic sitting area

 

Frame a birdbath or sculpture with trellises on either side

 

Use a bold-colored Clematis as the crown jewel of a fence

Mix Materials for Texture and Personality

Wood, iron, and even rope or bamboo can all be used in creative ways. Don’t be afraid to mix them for contrast.

 

Wooden trellis with a wrought iron arch nearby adds rustic charm

 

A chain-link fence softened with wood lattice panels and greenery offers both function and beauty

Rotate Seasonally with Annual Climbers

Even perennial-focused gardens benefit from the pop and flexibility of fast-growing annuals. Morning Glory, Black-eyed Susan Vine, and Sweet Peas can fill in gaps or add color between blooming seasons.

 

Great for temporary trellises or filling in spaces while perennials establish

 

Change colors or themes year to year

With the right mix of structure, height, and creativity, your garden becomes more than just a space — it becomes an experience. A place to wander, to rest, and to be inspired.

 

Need help planning your garden layout? The team at Scott’s Nursery can help you design the perfect setup for your space — complete with the right vines and supports.

Let Your Garden Climb to New Heights

From charming clematis-covered trellises to bold trumpet vines spilling over a rustic fence, vining perennials bring movement, height, and heart to any garden. Whether you're starting fresh or enhancing an existing space, trellises, arches, and fences offer creative opportunities to grow your garden vertically and beautifully.

 

With a little planning and care, these structures can:

Define spaces

Add privacy and charm

Support pollinators

And become stunning focal points for years to come

 

At Scott’s Nursery in Lincoln, New Brunswick, we’re proud to offer a wide selection of climbing perennials, garden structures, and expert advice to help you make the most of your vertical garden dreams.

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