Trellis Height Calculator

The calculator estimates the required trellis height above soil using a trained-vine projection plus clearances:

• Training efficiency reflects pruning, tying style, and crop habit.
• Angle is measured from vertical; larger angles reduce vertical reach.
• Tier count = ceil(Height ÷ Tier spacing), with a practical minimum of 2 tiers.
• Embed depth uses a ratio of height with a minimum depth, then increases for wind exposure.

1. Select your crop, then keep the default vine length or enter your estimate.
2. Choose the training style and angle based on how you plan to tie vines.
3. Set bottom and top clearance to allow airflow, weeding, and harvesting.
4. Enter tier spacing to match your wire, twine, or cross-member spacing.
5. Add span length, row count, and post spacing to estimate posts and wire.
6. Pick wind exposure; exposed sites need deeper embeds and stronger bracing.
7. Press Calculate to see results above the form.
8. Use the download buttons to export CSV or PDF for your project.

Climbing crops differ in how fast they gain height and how much lateral growth they need. A trellis that matches vine length reduces tangles and improves light interception. This calculator converts vine length into reach using a training efficiency factor, then adds clearances. Use the crop profile as a starting point, and override vine length when your variety is known to be longer.

Bottom clearance keeps foliage off damp soil, limiting splash‑borne disease and easing weeding. Top clearance creates room for pruning, tying, and fruit weight near the top wire. In humid gardens, a taller structure improves airflow and drying after irrigation. Aim for spacing so leaves do not mat together during peak growth and keeps harvest access comfortable.

Horizontal tiers or cross members provide multiple tie points and prevent sag under fruit load. Smaller tier spacing increases support points, which is useful for cucumbers and peas on netting. Wider spacing can work for beans with strong tendrils. The calculator recommends a minimum tier count based on height and your chosen spacing, helping you avoid long unsupported spans that bow under tension.

Stable posts are the backbone of a durable trellis. Embed depth is estimated as a ratio of above‑ground height with a practical minimum, then adjusted for wind exposure. Exposed sites need deeper embedment, stronger end posts, and diagonal bracing or anchors. When soil is sandy or frequently irrigated, increase embed depth or choose larger posts to reduce wobble over the season.

Material planning prevents mid‑build delays and supports accurate costing. The wire or rope estimate multiplies span length by the number of tiers and rows, then adds slack for knots and tensioning. Mesh area estimates the panel surface to purchase. If you add gates or corners, increase totals for overlaps and hardware. Document outputs help compare designs across beds before buying.

What vine length should I enter?

Use the expected maximum length for your variety and season. If unsure, start with the crop default, then add a safety margin if growth is vigorous or you fertilize heavily.

Why does the angle change the height?

Training at an angle turns some growth into sideways spread. The calculator uses a cosine projection, so larger angles reduce vertical reach and typically require a taller or longer trellis.

How do I choose tier spacing?

Match spacing to how often you can tie vines and how heavy the crop becomes. Closer tiers support netting and fruit loads better, while wider tiers may suit beans with strong tendrils.

When should I override embed depth?

Override it when you must meet a local depth, when soil is loose, or when the trellis carries heavy loads. Deeper embedment improves stiffness and reduces leaning after storms.

Are the materials estimates exact?

They are planning estimates based on span, tiers, and rows, with added slack. Add extra for corners, gates, overlaps, tensioners, and mistakes during cutting or knotting.

What changes for windy gardens?

Choose the exposed setting, then strengthen end posts, add diagonal bracing, and consider anchors. Wind increases side loads and can loosen posts, especially in wet or sandy soils.

• Use stronger end posts and braces; most failures start at the ends.
• For melons or heavy cucumbers, plan for extra load and slings.
• Keep mesh tight to reduce sag; re-tension as plants gain weight.
• Leave enough top clearance to prune and re-tie mid-season.