Build a Decorative Ball-Topped Vine Pole for Vertical Gardening

Covered with morning glories, this vine pole becomes a flowering lollipop as tall as you. A trellis, arbor, wall, or pole gives vines the support they need. This simple, architecturally clean structure transforms into a swirling mass of green tendrils and blossoms as the season warms—vertical gardening at its finest. Here's how to build one for under $25 in about an hour.

1. Build the Pole

From 1x4 treated lumber, cut 12 spacers to 3½x3½ in. squares. Starting at the top, glue 11 spacers 2½ in. apart between two treated 2x4s; the last spacer is flush with the bottom. Use weatherproof glue (e.g., Titebond II) and clamp until dry.

2. Add Dowels

Drill holes for dowels, glue them in. Cut squares for the top end, screw in place. Attach the ball finial with a dowel bolt (specialty fastener with threads on both ends). Drive into a pilot hole using locking pliers on the bolt's center section.

3. Set and Plant

Set the pole in a hole at least 30 in. deep. Choose any vine; try a different annual each year and watch them soar.

Materials

• 2 treated 8-ft 2x4s
• 1 treated 4-ft 1x4
• 1 treated 3-ft 1x6
• 2 4-ft ¾-in. dowels
• 1 3½-in. wood finial with dowel bolt
• 3-in. galvanized screws
• Exterior stain (optional)