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An arbor is a vertical arch structure that serves as a shaded passageway in a garden or yard. They not only improve visual appeal to an outside space, but arbors also have a practical purpose as they provide shade to people, giving them protection from the harsh sunlight.
Vines, climbing plants and flowers can woven around an arbor, making it appear like a natural complement to a garden or open space. Arbors can be freestanding or linked with another structure. A well designed and tastefully decorated arbor can also be an excellent structure for photo shoots such as weddings, parties and the like.
An arbor can be made from different materials. Early versions were made of stones and bricks but weren’t able to really take off as they didn’t appear natural. In the early days, people preferred structures that complemented well with their gardens. Wooden arbors were received more favorably since they had a more natural appeal.
Garden arbors can be simple or elaborate in design. A simple arbor can be just a short freestanding structure that functions as a gateway to a garden. Artwork is pretty conservative with basic pattern designs. More fanciful ones can have long chairs or benches integrated in them and made with expensive materials such as rare wood. Deck arbors are good examples.
A deck arbor is usually an expansive structure and can be installed near pools or right outside a home. This type of arbor can also be turned into a living or gathering area. By adding furniture such as tables and chairs, a deck arbor can be transformed into an outside dining area where families can enjoy meals together. It can also be made into a place conducive for napping by tying a hammock in the columns.
There are many ways to integrate plants in arbor plans. One can hang flower pots or baskets from the roof. Vines can be used to climb columns to disguise this structural component of arbors. Another design idea is to install rectangular planters in between columns. Hardy plants such as perennial flowers, strawberries, and shrubs are examples of flora that can be planted in these overhanging planters.
Arbors are available commercially in different sizes, colors, shapes, designs and materials. Most garden supply stores carry arbor selections although there are a growing number of Internet arbor stores today that cater to individuals who don’t have the luxury of time to visit traditional shops and who prefer the convenience of shopping online.
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Author Bio Box: Patricia Wainwright
Get all the facts about landscape gardening and organic gardening at GreenThumbArticles.com!
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