I would like to attempt to build a archway for my garden made entirely out of wood, preferably branches. I am considering a 6-7ft arch made out of one or two pieces with smaller brances intertwined. However i do not know the best type of tree i should consider as i presume it should be flexible enough to bend into the shape of an arch. I also dont know how to start builing it.

Any ideas......??? Thanks

 

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Hi Beetboy,

My favorite book is "Making Bentwood Trellises, Arbors, Gates & Fences", by Jim Long. I first checked it out from the library and liked it so much I bought it. Can you search your library with your PC???

If you use willow, one caution--willow roots very easily when stuck in the ground. A neat tip someone told me is to put the legs of the arbor/trellis in paint cans or three lb. coffee cans and pour in quick drying cement. Bury that underground. (Willow branches can be added to water and makes a good rooting medium.)

If you know anyone that has willows growing on their property, they may be VERY happy to let you trim them. They can also be found in wet areas in ditches, etc. A friend of mine made a neat arbor out of birch saplings. I made a trellis out of willow 3 years ago, and it's still going strong.

Gami