Spring is just around the corner, and for those who love to garden, this can be an exciting time. For my neighbor, it is a part-time hobby and borders on obsession. She comes up with the best small garden ideas. When she purchased and decorated several white vinyl and metal garden arbors with flowers and hanging pots, I was impressed. It made such a big difference in her garden landscaping. Believe it or not, the concept of the arbor dates back to medieval times. Early arbors provided a shaded passageway in hot weather. While they still accomplish this task, today's arbors are also used for decorative purposes and to anchor gates, walkways and an occasional bench or two.
For gardens that are narrow, an arbor is an ideal entryway. It provides an element of privacy as well as extra space to grow flowers.
Some allow flowers to climb and grow beautifully in every direction. You can easily hide the base of the arbor with small decorative shrubs or your choice of groundcover.
You can combine several with a staggered trellis fence to produce a classical cottage feel. Depending on the size of your garden space, you may even want to enclose the whole area. Add a matching gate (or gates), and you have your own private backyard haven to enjoy for years to come.
I discovered that there are hundreds of types of arbors to choose from ranging in price. Some are quite simple in style, while others are very ornate.
Although this post presents five white ones, black or wooden garden arbors are also very popular. Although I like the look of wood, I prefer the metal or PVC vinyl. They are virtually maintenance free - No staining, painting or rotting and the warranties are usually 20 years.
For special backyard occasions, a portable arbor like the Adorox is both decorative and cost-effective. It is lightweight and easy to assemble. Add flowers, and it becomes an eye-catching entryway.
If you want to incorporate hanging pots or baskets, which are typically quite heavy, you need to choose one strong enough to accommodate the extra weight. The Vienna, Athens, and Dura-Trels are all sturdy for vines and climbing plants.
Adorox Lightweight White Metal Arch Garden Decoration Arbor
Dura Trel 11179 Wellington White Garden Arbor
DuraTrel 11178 Providence White Arbor
Vienna White Vinyl Garden Arbor
