Living in Louisiana, wrought iron is my favorite material for trellises and arbors. The heavy black structures are a big part of our scenery and culture here. They look great in many situations... however, they can also be overwhelming when overdone. I try to mix a variety of structures so that my gardens have a more eclectic look. Here's a simple grid trellis that I've used to create a garden "room" in one corner of our yard. I have C. crassifolia and several types of viticella trained on it, but they are all newly planted babies in the photo. Louisiana irises fill the small garden in front of the lattice, along with a sunken fountain that is constructed from a converted chiminea. I attached Christmas lights to this trellis and they are set to come on for a few hours every night at dusk. I love the way the lights reflect in the pool and give a cheerful glow. BTW, I had just laid the brick patio that's in front of the lattice... now it's nice and smooth without the big gaps! We now have a set of wrought iron chaise loungers, a side table, and some potted plants on the landing as well.
How have you used these types of structures in your garden? Share, please!
