How to Build a Strong Cattle Panel Arch Trellis!

We show you how to make a cattle panel arch that can handle Florida storms and whatever vines you can grow on it! We show you how to tie them in to make them straight and firm. We also show you how to use t-posts and those t-post clips that come with them to secure the panels.
The arched trellis we will build is going to be the future home of many pumpkin and squash vines, plus it will act as a main feature of our garden once completed. We use two full panels to make an 8 foot long arch and we can add to in the future if we decide to go bigger.
This is a little longer than our previous videos… we'd rather take the time to explain everything as best as we can than to have someone get halfway through a build and find out we didn't talk about something. Please use the chapter marks to skip around if there's a section you aren't interested in.
Markers:
0:00 Intro
0:40 What size to build?
1:30 Parts
2:30 Orienting the panel
4:30 Using straps to shape the panel
7:30 Sizing the panel width
8:45 Adjusting the panel - resizing
9:40 Placing T-Posts
11:05 Completed arch trellis
12:20 Securing a second panel - extending the arch
13:10 Installing t-post clips
14:16 Conclusion
Update: Some details people have regularly asked that we didn't explicitly address in the video...
The panels are 16 foot long and 50 inches in height.
The t-posts we use are 5'5". If you have really solid ground, you could use shorter posts. If you have loose sandy soil, use longer posts and drive them in further.
You don't have to use "cattle" panels... you can use goat/sheep/hog/deer panel, etc. The panels we use are sold as cattle panels around here, so that's what we call them. We believe these are cattle panel sized with the bottom squares altered to do double duty as hog panels... the store can sell one product for either use.

[@florence775]

I’m an old widow and wanted to put up something for grapes, but wasn’t sure how to go about it. This was wonderful and helped me so much and I can do this myself. Thank you.

[@AnoleGarden]

We are happy you found it helpful! ☺️

[@EvolutionWendy]

I'm a disabled single person and it looks like I might be able to do it too. Thank you!!

[@NonaGross]

Be careful!

[@pamelaspooner7183]

I did this as an arch over the front gate to my home 20 years ago with a 4 x 8 panel. All I can advise is be careful as it will definitely play ‘crack the whip’ with you! It was a big success and I grew Lady Banks Roses (1 each side) and it was lovely. Too sad the next owner tore it all down.

[@MotorSwapDan]

Why be careful ​@@NonaGross

[@justlookin2]

Ratchet straps! Who knew? You did!!! I'm alone at 69 and have been trying to figure out how to do this by myself. I do have a neighbor who would help me with the t-posts tho. Thank you sooooo very much.

[@jannafolsom1069]

The ratchet straps! Flipping genius! Pretty sure you've saved a few marriages with that tip! 😅 Seriously though, this is a great video. Simple, thorough instructions. Definitely appreciate it!

[@AnoleGarden]

Glad it was helpful! Let us know if you build one. Thanks for checking us out!

[@jannafolsom1069]

YES! I did 2! And when the house is finished, I will do several more on the trail to the greenhouse and gardens. I absolutely love it. I was able to do it without asking my husband to help. (I like challenges) thank you, again for sharing!

[@mariegoheen6037]

@@jannafolsom1069can I come see your garden? It sounds beautiful!!!

[@desamecyra1]

Thank you for one of the clearest and easiest instructional videos I’ve ever had the privilege of watching!

[@MelbaSee]

2 years later, but this is the most informative video I have watched on making an arch trellis with a cattle panel. Thank you for it.

[@janessasample]

I was looking on KZbin this morning trying to figure out how I was going to this alone. The straps (why I didn’t think of this) was the advice I needed. Long story short. Thank you.

[@AnoleGarden]

Yeah! We are happy to help ☺️.

[@johnanderson3405]

My wife and I built an arch trellis using cattle panels several years ago. We love it. Usually we alternate between cucumbers and pole beans. This year it’s cucumbers. It’s beautiful to walk through it when it’s covered with greenery. We used 4 panels. Nice video sir. 😊

[@susanchristensen1500]

Perfect timing even 3 yrs later. I'm doing this but attaching to fence for my kiwis 🥝 Thank you

[@irairod5160]

Using the ratchet straps is brilliant! Thank you for all the details.

[@AnoleGarden]

You are very welcome!

[@huzbum]

Work smart not hard, that's the way to do it! Appreciate your other video showing how to transport them too!

[@midraju3771]

A wonderful presentation from beginning to end. Clearly spoken .Explained in detail.

[@AnoleGarden]

Much appreciated! Thanks for checking us out!

[@judystark72]

You are a very good teacher! You sound like a professional.

[@Pablo19625]

So far you have the best video explaining how to build one of these arched cattle panels trellis. Well done ❤️

[@AnoleGarden]

Thank you so much! 😊

[@yverocks64]

This was explained so well, that I feel much less intimidated by trying to do this on my own. Thank you and you have a new subscriber! 😉

[@AnoleGarden]

You got this! It really isn't that difficult if you are patient and have a little bit of help. Thanks for the comment and the sub! :)

[@cmcd4144]

This is EXACTLY what I needed - thank you so very much for taking the time to explain how to use those clips!! We knew we needed them, but they just come in a bag with no help and no instructions whatsoever - AND my husband is 6'5", wanted to be able to walk through our arches, and you saved us all of the math - thank you!

[@AnoleGarden]

That's great, we're so glad everything worked out for you! We hope you get lots growing on it! :) Thanks for checking us out!

[@timmcquerry6068]

Nice Tip with the Gallvy'Fence wire!

[@AnoleGarden]

Public apology time... We got a comment asking about the length of the panels. In my excitement and attempt to approve it on my itty-bitty phone screen, I accidentally deleted it. KZbin has no way to recover deleted comments and they're gone forever... I'm so bummed about this. But, I still have the notification email... > What is the length of your panel I listened 2x but did not hear this. thank-you Each panel is 16 feet long and 50 inches (4 ft 2 inches) wide. The combined length of the trellis with two panels is 100 inches or 8 ft 4 inches. The panels also come in 8 foot lengths, which we have used for other purposes, but you really need the 16 footers to make a decent arch. Thanks, Marion! On the plus side, this will now be liked and stuck here for all time. ;)

[@fengyun5310]

What size of T-post you use? 5" or 6"? And what length you think it is the best? thanks.

[@fengyun5310]

sorry, I meant 5 or 6 ft. not inch.

[@AnoleGarden]

​@@fengyun5310 We use 5'6" posts, but it depends on your soil and the width of your arch. If the posts are too tall, they'll pull the arch outward too much when you fasten it to the top of the posts, which will somewhat "flatten" the arch. If they're too short, the arch won't be as strong and will wobble.. Also, if you have really loose soil, you might want a longer post so it's more stable. If you're not sure, go with longer posts... you can always bang them in deeper if they're too high.

[@brendaclee3]

Could you please tell us what guage of cattle panel you used?

[@AnoleGarden]

@@brendaclee3 I've seen it listed on Tractor Supply as 4 or 6 guage, depending on which description you read. Each bar is roughly 5.5mm or 0.22 inches in diameter.

[@carladoerre]

Love the idea using the ratchet straps to hold things in place safety is very important

[@AnoleGarden]

We've learned that being safe usually only takes a couple of extra minutes, whereas scars and stitches take a long time. ;) Thanks for joining us!

[@LY43537]

Calm, clear, with great visual cuts and editing. I’m a total noob and I’ve learned so much in one video. Truly great production here! Thanks so much!

[@derikjbrandt]

Good video. Thanks.

[@alionsspace5236]

This is the best video I've seen on putting up panels. Thanks!!

[@AnoleGarden]

Thank you! 😊

[@jkx6836]

Great video! The tips on using ratchet straps and t-post clip installation are excellent! I learned a lot and I can see how your method is very useful to build safely and efficiently. Thanks!

[@AnoleGarden]

I ruined a lot of clips before I found the screwdriver method, so I figured I can't be the only one. ;) Thanks for checking us out!

[@ramondelgado5487]

where l can l buy trellis

[@betsylindsay8480]

Well done! Glad to find and sub to your channel. NE FL here, too.

[@jillseng6075]

Great info with detail for beginners. Thanks.

[@AnoleGarden]

Thanks so much!

[@sandytodoroff293]

Thanks! Vocals were clear. Instructions were realistic, simple and to the point. And, I'm glad Daisy was there to help you! :)

[@AnoleGarden]

Thanks! She can be quite useful at times. ;)

[@theresamarie1089]

I have to say that I have been in love with these trellises. I just couldn't understand how to actually build one. Your video was fantastic and really easy to understand. I particularly liked the info about using ratchet straps to form the shape and control the structure until it is attached to posts. I really appreciate the advice on how to secure the clips to the posts for additional strength and security. I'm headed to my tractor supply to begin shopping for supplies. Thank you kindly. I subscribed because I like your direct and succinct instructions.

[@AnoleGarden]

Thank you so much for your feedback! ☺️

[@B_Loke]

Great idea with the ratchet straps!!

[@Carol-ck2pg]

Thank you for this comprehensive informative and easy to follow and understand video on how to build an arch using cattle panel. I've watched as many as I could find on this topic and yours is, by far, the best. It's so helpful to watch how it's done, step by step. I appreciate the options you discuss regarding fastening and securing sturdily vs. sturdiest. The tips you give are going to make an awkward job easier to manage. I have absolutely no experience with cattle panels or posts but after watching your video I feel confident that I can do it. Wonderful job!

[@AnoleGarden]

Thanks so much! We hope it turns out fantastically for you! This one is still "seasonal" and we generally grow annual vegetables on it right now, but it will probably become a grape trellis eventually.

[@faithsfarmlife1424]

I just bought ten cattle panels I am going to do this

[@ChiaraUsher2010]

Those ratchet straps are a great idea!

[@AnoleGarden]

Glad you like them! I'm sure I'm not the first to use them like that, but I just kind of found out that works when I used a strap to load a panel in the truck and it stayed together nicely. Thanks for checking us out!

[@deko2485]

Have to say this is the best most comprehensive and safest way to build one I have seen. Some videos I have watched are more comical with a relief when no one is hurt. Thanks for teaching us the correct way. Oh, and those clips, never knew how to use them nor could I find someone who knew.

[@AnoleGarden]

Thanks! I broke quite a few of those clips before I found out how they worked. Thanks for checking us out!

[@apiecemaker1163]

This was very thorough and as a beginner, I appreciate you explaining it step by step. I could follow along very easily. 👩‍🌾❤️

[@AnoleGarden]

Thanks! We do our best to be thorough without rambling too much.

[@apiecemaker1163]

You isn’t rambl. I saved the video in my library for spring. Too cold out in the garden quite yet. Thanks.

[@apiecemaker1163]

@@AnoleGarden I built one today. It is 8 ft long and connects two raised beds. I’m so excited about it. I have English peas planted to grow over it and plan to do green beans next. Thank you again.

[@bradsharber6570]

I called it. thanks again and keep it up. Later friend

[@samarabatts]

This is so helpful and exactly what I’m looking for! Thank you so much!

[@athustunccd2130]

Excellent explanations. Thank you

[@johnfilicicchia1651]

Thanks for this excellent video. Your informative steps were incredibly helpful to me in utilizing the cattle panels!!

[@christinestraub1994]

Straps are a great idea!!!!

[@leavesongrass]

REALLY helpful! I want to support a passion fruit vine this way on the side of my house. Thsnk you!!

[@trumpzilla4193]

Fantastic and Thanks! From Winderdome BC

[@okiejammer2736]

Well, I'll be. I needed to know this and here you are. Thanks so much!

[@JanicefromKansas]

Hello from Kansas 🇺🇸

[@AnoleGarden]

Hello Kansas or The Sunflower 🌻 State!!! 👋☺️ Thank you for checking us. - From The Sunshine State

[@clusterluck12]

T post clip installation 🤯

[@petercurro8899]

Great video. Thanks for the information :)

[@shirleyandrews1152]

Excellent instructions. Thank you❤️

[@courtneylaplante3026]

This was very informative. Thank you

[@susandyson3921]

Oh man, you solved a problem for me. Thank you so much.

[@LS-kg6my]

Thank you so much for this!! I’ve been trying to figure out how to do this myself and this is excellent

[@drmasroberts]

Thanks for the clear description.

[@schammond8993]

This is a late post but wanted to comment anyway. I'm 66 years old and after watching this I followed your directions and made one of these for my grapevines. I did it alone t post and all. My ground was fairly easy because of so much rain. That would be the hardest part if your ground is hard. Thanks and good job. 👍

[@AnoleGarden]

Excellent work!👍 What an accomplishment! We hope you get lots of grapes 🍇!

[@johndavenport9945]

Good information .

[@GeneralLeeIrritable]

That was great, thank you. This makes me want to build a maze of these the new property.

[@teresasuderman2199]

That was super helpful. Thanks

[@mafrugal]

This was good information and after years finally know the right way to use the wires that come with steel/ metal posts.. Thanks..

[@crochetingaroundnewzealand]

Excellent video thanks so much!

[@AnoleGarden]

You're very welcome!

[@thefrenchgardener1865]

Great job....looks terrific.....I want to do this in my garden but only with one cattle panel. Yours is really nice.

[@hemi5365]

You gave me a great idea!

[@carolyn9547]

Yes, ratchet straps, thank you for the tip

[@AnoleGarden]

Happy to help! The cheapest ratchet straps you could find are probably more than adequate... they don't have to be strong, they just keep everything together. Thanks for checking us out!

[@MsLindy57]

Great tutorial! Thank you.

[@tomt9543]

Very good video! The “ratchet straps” that you used, even though they’re not really “ratchet”, are the best choice for this application! I can imagine some poor soul running out and buying ratchet straps to build these, and then struggling to make adjustments due to the unkind ratchets on that style! For the uninitiated, they need to be aware of the two types, and that the slider type is the way to go! Thanks for posting!

[@alliehunter9896]

I'm by myself. I think I can do this. Ty

[@Kamoflage7]

What a wonderful video!

[@AnoleGarden]

Thanks so much!

[@patriot9455]

I will show my wife this video, she will be as happy as I am to begin our path toward self sufficiency, as much as out land and imagination allow

[@AnoleGarden]

Thank you! Enjoy your journey...you'll have success and some failures. Learn from the failures 😸.

[@jonathanryals9934]

I am building one of these this weekend, and I am just gonna go ahead and go with 5 foot myself.

[@terrivance8750]

Thank you. New to all this--I learned a lot!!!

[@RodgerDodger196]

WOW!! THEEEEE FIRST VIDEO IVE EVER WATCHED THAT ACTUALLY SHOWED YOU HOW TO INSTALL THE CLIPS! -nice calm voice that I not need to replay to catch what you said-THANKS!!

[@AnoleGarden]

Thank you very much!😎☺️

[@bleon5956]

Love it pls post video after you plant something on it! 💕

[@AnoleGarden]

Absolutely! We're hoping it becomes just a huge green archway with small pumpkins hanging down from it. :) Thanks!

[@rbs2303]

Thank you for taking the time to make this video for us. This is exactly what we are trying to build this spring. :)

[@zomday71]

Informative video. Thanks for posting!

[@buckbuchanan4851]

Great Idea!! I would have liked to See Pictures of it with plants growing on it. I'm in the process of planning a "Plant Cage" using Cattle panels and bird netting That doubles as a hot house in the winter, by covering it with plastic.

[@backwoodscountryboy1600]

This video was very helpful thank you for making it

[@brigitteg440]

This was so great! The information you provided, the reasons why you did what you did, the material information you provided - bravo! Also - T-post driver - didn't know such a thing existed! You saved my arms. Thank you so much! Subscribed and grateful 😀

[@AnoleGarden]

Happy to help! Thank you for your support!☺️

[@mkandtk56]

Really liked the idea of the t-posts and clips, I had the same setup in my greenhouse but used flimsier post for mine. Definitely will be changing to the t-posts. Thanks for the info.

[@Ronbonius]

One of the best instructional how-to's I've seen on KZbin. I already have established 4x8 garden boxes that I'll be using your method to put cattle panel trellises over. Thanks for explaining in detail how you did this. Perfect!

[@careycannon1698]

This video is EXACTLY what we needed! Thank you so much for your time!!

[@AnoleGarden]

We are happy to help!!!☺️

[@SLS365]

Yes...I'm so doing this next week

[@connievick7492]

LOVE this video!!!

[@isabellapuig9003]

great video! thank you !!

[@rmgalardo]

Thanks for the video! So helpful!

[@cody8161]

Best cattle panel video I’ve seen. The ratchet strap helped (hopefully) solve my transport issue. Keep up the great work!

[@AnoleGarden]

Awesome! Thank you!

[@ericsolomon9522]

SUPER HELPFUL !!! Thank you from SWFL

[@claudiaguzman3756]

Very well explained, calm, great visuals and good advise on safety. Thank you so much for posting this!!

[@christineosborne3155]

Very well explained!!

[@AnoleGarden]

Glad you liked it, thanks!

[@robinbowman2464]

Excellent

[@robertdhenderson6825]

Outstanding Job

[@AnoleGarden]

Thank you so much!

[@ImASurvivorNThriver]

This is a GREAT tutorial! Thanks for sharing.

[@AnoleGarden]

Glad it was helpful, thanks!

[@SharonBLAKELEY]

Wonderful video! I've been wanting to do this. Love your attention to detail and safety.

[@ngatruong710]

Thank you very much for your teaching. It’s very easy to do.

[@AnoleGarden]

You are very welcome!

[@keithprinn720]

definitely educational think I would go wider with above ground boxes each side with walkway down the middle thank you

[@joydaniel597]

Great tutorial

[@londonpickering8675]

Good vid! Thank you for taking the time to post this.

[@fishnlady]

You did an outstanding job

[@AnoleGarden]

Awesome, thanks!

[@gaylejansen488]

The best video about cattle panel trellis set up I've seen. I'm definitely going to use your method. Thank you.

[@AnoleGarden]

Awesome, thank you!

[@juliahelland6488]

Thanks for sharing ❣

[@AnoleGarden]

Thanks for watching!

[@firehorsewoman414]

Love the video - great presentation. Thanks!

[@danisesmith5785]

Thank you for explaining how to use the clips!

[@AnoleGarden]

You are welcome! 😊

[@jkgirlify]

Thank you, this is perfect

[@deepahindustani3581]

I'm a beginner and was superbly confused about all this.. but now feeling confident and ready to start... tx u explained it so well.. 😊❣

[@AnoleGarden]

You can do it! You'll love having the panels!

[@banana.blossom]

Thank you so much! This is the most thorough instructional video I've seen. Now on to building my cattle panel arch.

[@AnoleGarden]

You won't regret having one!

[@amyhoff1501]

Love 💕 your explanation of how to make a trellis with cattle panels , very thorough and easy to fallow, thank you and greetings from Massachusetts

[@ritamccartt-kordon283]

Thank for this video. GOD bless