I got the top to an old pergola when I went to pick up a free bench from someone on Craig's list. Actually, I got two pieces. I assume they are both tops, but it doesn't matter. I thought about what to do with them and this is what I came up with. I have done one, the other one soon.




I put weed barrier fabric and chicken wire on the back and then my husband fastened it to the wall. The plant pockets aren't very big so I added some cut up disposable diapers to the bottom and filled with soil, then planted with lobelia, alyssum, petunias, nierembergia. I can't wait until it fills in. Everything except the plants on the very top I started from seed.

I cut back the alyssum but I think I need to do the same with the petunias to get them to bush out a bit.

That's a great idea, Arlene! I'd love to see more pictures as the plants fill in over the summer.

Arlene, that is absolutely genius! Please, please DO share some photos as the plants grow -- it looks like it will be spectacular

Arlene- My first thought was: "Fabulous I can't wait to see it in three months".
But, my second thought was: "Her siding might rot" :-0

Way cool, Arlene!

The pergola is leaning against the house and attached at the top. It is not flush with the house so no need to worry about the siding rotting!

I will post photos as it fills in.

Thanks for all the thumbs up and compliments!

Just a couple of updated photos to show how nicely the flowers are filling in. The hummers are enjoying the petunias!

That's beautiful, Arlene! Just the right amount of color and so rustic looking!

I hadn't even thought about hummingbirds, but this is like a buffet for them

It's rustic all right! But not falling apart so it should last a few years hopefully.

LOVE it! That is such a creative use for the pergola top, Arlene

How pretty. You are always so busy. It looks to be growing happily and I can hardly wait to see it in a month or so.

That is so amazing--I love the creativity of reusing something like this. Great choice of plants, too.