Perennial climbers may benefit from a trellis frame attached to the wall. These vertical elements, in turn, can be incorporated as features in the vegetable garden. In free-standing plots, the garden can be anchored to these vertical elements. Arbors can be simple, walk-through arches that unite two beds or mark a main passage, or more elaborate spaces that house seating. Simple tepees fashioned from long poles have gained enormously in popularity both for their whimsical appeal and their practicality.
Cages vary in size and configuration as much as any structure.
The cone-shaped tomato cages available at garden and home centers seem too small come August. Remember, you have to sink each pole at least 12 inches into the ground. Staves also are available at garden centers. The poles are thrust into the ground at an angle and then lashed together in clusters of five or more at the top to form the tepee. They can be planted inside as well as out, sheltering shade-loving varieties or just grass or mulch to form a snug retreat for a foraging turtle, a pet or even the smallest gardener in the house.