Growing your crops at home is all about one thing: Making sure they grow as healthy as possible. Sure, that means you need to water them properly and expose them to the right amount of sunlight.
It also means you want to provide them with the necessary support for optimal growth. In other words, you need to use plant supports.
I know you’ll search on Google and pick a few functional supports with classic designs. That’s a logical step—but what if you could go beyond that?
Why not go a little crazy with these supports? After all, your garden deserves some creativity.
So, here are six creative plant support ideas you’ve never thought of before.
1 – Zigzag Plant Support
Right off the bat, I’m starting with a weird one. Look, I know not everyone will be a fan of this zigzag pattern, but you have to admit, it’s quite creative.
I know what you’re thinking: “These gimmicky designs usually come at the expense of functionality.” I see why you’d think that, but this one is as practical and functional as any other design you can find on the market.
Besides, it usually comes in different sizes. So, you can support various plants in your garden.
2 – Garden Arch Support
Who wouldn’t want to capture the magical atmosphere of a classy wedding in their garden? If that’s what you’re aiming for, I can’t think of a better support piece to install than an arch.
Not only does it offer excellent support for climbing plants, but it also gives them extra space to grow comfortably. That means you won’t have to worry about them taking over your garden.
Pro tip: To make the best use of this arch, I recommend building it yourself. You’ll be able to accurately measure its dimensions and enjoy the freedom of using the materials you prefer.
I know what you’re thinking: “I’m not a builder. I can’t make something like that.” First, it’s not that hard, and you can find plenty of guides on the internet.
Second, if you can’t build it, you can always buy it online. You’ll have various designs, materials, and sizes to choose from.
3 – Wooden Chairs
Yes, your eyes are fine. I’m recommending you use a repurposed wooden chair as plant support.
I know it’s an unconventional idea, but that’s what this post is all about. The question is: Why would anyone choose a chair rather than a dedicated plant support?
First, it’s a quick and accessible option. You may not have nearby stores that sell garden tools, and we all know how long online orders can take.
You probably already have an old wooden chair in your house, though. Why not put it to good use?
Second, turning chairs into plant supports is easier than you think. All you have to do is give your chair a lick of paint, wait for it to dry, and make a hole in the seating area. Et voila!
4 – Lampshade Plant Support
Did you think wooden chairs are the only decorative items you can use to support plants? Of course not!
How do you turn lampshades into plant supports, though? Just grab any old lamp in your house and cut the fabric with a pair of scissors or a utility knife until the wire is all that’s left.
Scrape the glue off the wire, then go over it with sandpaper. Remove the top part that holds the light bulb, and you’ll have a sturdy, practical plant support.
5 – Small Bow Plant Support
Not all plants are high climbers. What about the little ones? We can’t forget those.
They need support, too. That’s why I come to you with the small bow plant support.
It doesn’t look like much, but it’s more versatile than you think. Not only can it offer your small plants the support they need to withstand extreme weather, but it can also help them regrow if they get windswept.
Here’s the intriguing part: If size is an issue, you can combine these small pieces together to cover larger areas.
Besides, that type of support usually comes in different sizes. So, even if you want to support a medium-sized plant, you’ll find a suitable size.
6 – Pyramid Obelisk Support
Pyramids are a symbol of glory, grace, stabilization, and balance. So, of course, you’d want to install a pyramid obelisk support in your garden.
Plus, pyramid obelisk supports come in a variety of designs. Whatever your taste is, I assure you, you’ll find something that appeals to you.
Do you prefer over-the-top pizzazzy aesthetics? You’ll find support pieces with premium materials and unique patterns.
Are you a straightforward person who likes their plant supports to reflect their personality? You can buy a wooden pyramid obelisk with a minimal design.
The best part? These pyramids are even easier to build at home than the arch. All you have to do is attach a few bamboo poles with garden twine.
Final Thoughts
Look, classic plant support designs are fine and dandy, but you can go the extra mile and make something more appealing. Not only will you help your plants grow properly, but you’ll also increase your garden’s visual appeal tenfold.
Growing up with a mom who filled her home (inside and out) with all sorts of plants, Lisa got her start in gardening at a young age. Living now on her own with a home and yard full of plants (including an indoor greenhouse), she shares all the gardening tips she’s gained over the years.
Leitha
Friday 9th of August 2024
I am interested in the Zigzag Plant Supports but I can't find any information about them (checking YouTube and Amazon). Can you help me understand 1) what they look like and 2) where I can find them? Thank you!
Lisa Bridenstine
Saturday 10th of August 2024
Hi Leitha, These would be similar to a garden trellis, but they are a series of panels that have hinges so that you can create a zigzag pattern with them. Here's an example that I found on amazon: https://amzn.to/3M27EYc I hope this helps.
Happy planting! Lisa