Expensive Lattice Ideas

Trees

• One option, which is unusual and costly, can be to grow your own lattice. This is done by using trees, shrubs or plants that grow together as the branches intertwine with one another naturally. An option for this type of lattice display is to use dwarf apple trees or pear trees. To form the lattice pattern, which occurs over time, you must plant the trees while they are young and pliable. Keep the spacing close together and angle the tree trunks by positioning one trunk towards another and then repeating the process until all trees are paired up so that they may grow together. You will need to provide stakes to secure the trunks as the trees begin to grow, as the angled base is not as stable when compared to planting completely upright.

Climbing Vines and Plants

• If you want to create an expensive looking lattice or trellis in your garden, consider starting with a simple wooden frame. Install the lattice where you have ample room for a variety of plant growth. Plant at the base of the lattice climbing plants and vines such as clematis and honeysuckle. You can take this live lattice idea and change the style by swapping out plants. Peas are one other option that can be used to turn an ordinary piece of lattice into a garden-worthy display of color. The added expense is due to the higher cost associated with climbers, such as clematis. For example, larger, more mature clematis cost much more compared to growing the plant from seed. Cost is further increased when you plant multiple plants together to grow a dense display.

Copper

• For those who simply want lattice as a focal point in their outdoor area, you can use different types of material for the lattice itself. Though wooden trellises are the least expensive, opting for a higher quality material can change the outcome. For example, copper is a costly material but the look of copper lattice can draw attention. To compare, copper cost an average of $4.60 per pound in March 2011, with aluminum costing only $1.15 per pound. The copper option tends to develop patina over time, further adding to the elegant look and feel of the lattice. Using climbing plants that match with the copper color will enhance the total look of the area.

Professional Services / Pruning and Trimming

• One alternate idea for an expensive looking and costly option for lattice is to use the Belgian doublet or Belgian fence method of creating a trellis-style structure. This way of creating a lattice-inspired wall of plants and flowers is costly for those without ample time available to continually prune and shape the design. As the plants grow and weave together, you must keep repositioning vines, stems and branches, all the while securing pieces of the plants to the wire, mesh or wooden backing that is supporting initial growth. This option works well when you are seeking to create a lattice display along the wall of a house or other structure as climbers will naturally snake up the wall as they grow. It is the constant repositioning of growth that will eventually create a lattice appearance over time.