PERGOLAS

Evening Star, Issue 22619, 10 April 1937, Page 24

PERGOLAS

Nowadays the pergola is often looked upon with a certain amount of shyness, especially by those who are more particularly interested in climbing plants (says the Christchurch ‘ StarSun’). The chief objection, presumably, is that there is often a tendency for the pergola itself to become more important than the plants which adorn it. One feels sympathy with this point of view when one sees some of the pergolas, particularly the “rustic’’ ones, which are frequently erected. Yet, given a proper sense of proportion, the pergola can be made a 'most enjovable addition to any garden. From the pergola of Italy to the rustic effort is a far cry, and it is safe to say that the average garden would be better without either, satisfying itself with an intermediate type suitable to our climate and general conditions. The two chief points to remember are that a pergola shall be essentially a structure for assisting us to enjoy the beanies of climbing plants; secondly, a fact that should no longer need very frequent reiteration, it should not be purposeless, but should lead to some definite part of the garden. Remember these two rules and there should be little danger of a pergola becoming an undesirable object. Turning to the question of construction, the first matter to be decided will be the material to be used for the main supports. Wood is preferable, must be i strong, and should be put in very firmly, with 2ft or more below the ground. Preservative should be applied to the lower end and put on sufficiently high for two or three inches above the ground also to be protected. Eight feet between the poles and oft across the path are quite good distances, but circumstances will dictate to some extent what the actual distances will be. Thinner poles can then be fixed to the tops of the main supports, running parallel and at right angles to the path. By this means a series of rectangles will be formed, and further strengthening maybe done by inserting other poles diagonally across. Short additional supports may be added if desired. A framework such as this is essentially serviceable, and will show climbers to their best advantage; nor is it more difficult to erect than the more rustic constructions. Where iron arches are used fpr support, wooden poles will be required to join them. It is always best as far as possible to avoid allowing plants to touch metal. Although the iron is always rather an objectionable feature, the climbers will do much to alleviate this disadvantage. Little need be said here as to suitable plants for the pergola, or a catalogue of most climbing plants would soon be made. Roses and clematis are two of the most important, genera, and from either group an extensive pergola could be covered. A third interesting genus,

which will afford a plentiful choice, is the vine family, members of which can bo interspersed very satisfactorily among clematis. Honeysuckles and the charming Polygonum baldschuan nieum should also" '"mentioned. ■