Ever since chicken wire, also known as hex mesh, was invented in 1844, wire mesh has worked overtime in gardens, farms and landscaping. Not only is the galvanized wire mesh an inexpensive option for creating pens, it also serves a variety of other purposes, including pest control, retaining walls, and gardening solutions, such as helping to control root direction.
Chicken wire has the advantages of being durable, affordable, and versatile, making it perfect for sprucing up outdoor spaces. Unlike similar looking chain link fencing, wire is flexible and often easy to cut. It's also practical. Its galvanized coating keeps it staying rust-free for years.
Looking to incorporate wire mesh into your landscaping? Check out these five ideas.
1. Privacy Screens
In cities, privacy can feel like a luxury, but it doesn't have to be. Wire screens can shelter the yard from passersby, while still letting people enjoy the fresh air in peace. The screens can complement any outdoor design or style! From colorful and creative to sleek and modern, the options are endless. You can also grow vines on chicken wire fences to create a more private space.
2. Planters and Vertical Gardening
Add a modern touch to your yard touch by creating a wire mesh planter combined with river rocks or a floral sconce. Durable wire towers can support the weight of full-size tomato, bean, pea, or cucumber plants. Build an inexpensive and durable tower yourself with a 19- or 24-inch diameter and five to six feet of mesh. According to Mother Earth News, Upstate New York gardener Scott Benson notably grew 100 varieties of tomatoes on a wire mesh trellis in 2002. The towers can also keep pests away from seedlings if they're combined with fabric covers. Use greenhouse plastic, and build a mini greenhouse.
3. Backyard and Holiday Lighting
Decorative chicken wire reflects light in a surprisingly unique way, making it a perfect material for lighting up your backyard. D.I.Y. outdoor Christmas ornaments can brighten up any outside space. Use the wire with string lights for your creation. Outdoor light fixtures like lamps get a contemporary spin with chicken wire accents.
4. Sculptures
The Australian sculptor Ian Lovatt uses chicken wire to depict larger-than-life celebrities like Albert Einstein, John Lennon, and Michael Jackson. For the more amateur artist, a dragonfly sculpture made out of decorative mesh used in gardens provides a snazzy, original touch on a budget. The Wood Grain Cottage has a helpful guide to creating an intriguing wire globe.
5. Pest Control
Using chicken wire for fencing has always been a popular choice among gardeners and landscapers. It’s also long been used for pest control. From bats and bees to snakes and squirrels, wire mesh can exclude a wide variety of pest species - and it can look good!
Decorative mesh has unlimited potential when used in gardens. Those working on landscaping their yards only need to look. Inspiration is everywhere.
Since 1969, TWP Inc. has been supplying a variety of wire mesh by material and providing laser cutting services to customers all over the world. Request a quote for your project today.
