Before you go out and get your materials to build a grape trellis do a little planning. There are a few facts you need to get straight first. If not you risk wasting effort, money and not having a useful structure fit for its purpose.
The very first question you need to ask yourself is exactly how many vines do propose to have? If it's just a handful, consider growing them over an arbor or on a lattice fastened to a wall. You could even go go for a decorative wrought iron feature. This could prove to be a striking focal point to you garden. Picture yourself strolling out and snipping of a bunch of succulent grapes at harvesting time.
In a different situation if you are planning on more plants, a few dozen to several hundred that is going to require installing a proper trellis structure. The design and materials are ultimately going to be your choice however this might be influenced by various factors such as the costs involved. Now you will understand why getting it right first time is essential.
Grape vines need to be placed eight feet apart to allow room to spread as they grow. Because these plants are not self supporting all their weight is going to hang on the structure you build. Imagine dozens of mature plants each laden with 20 or 30 pounds of fruit, branches and foliage and you get the idea just how much strain will be placed on a trellis. Therefore a strong, well constructed framework made using suitable materials is crucial.
All the different building materials available to you have their good and bad points. For example timber is probably the cheaper option. It's easy to work with and versatile. You can build a 'ranch style fence' similar to the ones seen as horse corrals in movies. They are strong, quite adequate for your grapes and simple to construct.
The alternative to the above is to sink 3 or 4 inch diameter timber posts at least two feet into the ground. Concreting them in gives immense stability. Next string 12.5 gauge galvanised wire along the posts and secure with galvanised staples. The height you 'string' at depends on the variety of vine you will be using. You can use guy ropes at the end of rows to maintain tension or more posts angled into the ground for increased strength. Any kind of timber though must be treated as it is going to be exposed to the elements for many years.
In complete contrast to timber you might consider using plastic or metal. Again each has its merits. Plastic is easy to work with, weather resistant and generally inexpensive. Metal on the other hand is extremely strong and providing it is painted or waterproofed will last a very long time. Also metal may be more costly than timber.
So you can understand from the guidance given here it is vital you work out in advance how much material you are going to need for the project. Factor into your calculations everything no matter how small as it's surprising how the costs mount. Compare the different building materials and once more factor in added costs such as paint for metal posts or different fastening for the wires.
When you have all the information you will better able to make a decision on the most suitable and cost effective way to construct your grape trellises.
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