Veggies on a Dime

Most gardeners would agree that they always need more space. That's why I grow vertically—it doubles the size of my garden. I designed and built these trellises from lumber and wire fencing. They are perfect for my vining fruits and vegetables. I grow pole beans, squash, watermelon, pumpkins and gourds using this method.

Going vertical leaves a lot of extra space for other vegetables, and the vining plants stay healthy and protected from pests and critters. And I'll never have to buy gourd or bean seeds again! The hard-to-reach beans at the top of the trellis I just leave where they are. In spring, I collect the dried-out pods, take the seeds from the gourds, and plant directly into the ground. —Brian Peterson, Lake Orion, Michigan