Make a Vintage Trellis from Old Garden Gates

Turn two salvaged garden gates into a charming, blooming trellis with a built-in planter. A little creativity transforms discarded items into garden art.

Materials

• 2 similarly sized garden gates
• 2 pieces of 12″ square plywood
• 8 bolts (2″)
• Salvaged tin ceiling tiles
• Small nails
• Sturdy wire
• 2 pieces of 1x4 board (length of gates)
• 4 rebar stakes (12″)

Step 1: Clean the Gates

Remove rust with a power washer or steel wool.

Step 2: Create the Frame

Lean gates together, tops slightly apart to form a planter gap. Cut plywood to fit the open tops, drill and bolt through gates and plywood.

Step 3: Reinforce Against Wind

Wire a 1x4 along the bottom of each gate. Drill 1″ holes at board ends, drive rebar stakes through into ground. Cover boards with soil or mulch.

Step 4: Make the Planter

1. Fold tin ceiling tiles over the plywood tops; nail in place.
2. Shape chicken wire into a planter basket (don't let it hang below plywood). Wire it to the gates.
3. Line with sphagnum moss or coconut fiber. Fill with quality potting mix, water well, and plant flowers, herbs, or vegetables.