When it comes to the direction in which a trellis should face, the general recommendation is to run it North-South. This allows both sides of the trellis to receive equal sunshine throughout the day, without one side being shaded out. However, it is important to note that this recommendation is not set in stone, and there are instances where East-West trellises can also be successful.
Running a trellis East-West means that one side of the trellis will receive more sunshine in the morning, while the other side will receive more sunshine in the afternoon. This can potentially lead to one side of the plants being shaded out for part of the day, which is not ideal. However, in some situations, an East-West trellis can still work well.
In my own personal experience, I have two grape/muscadine trellises that run East-West, and they have been thriving. Despite the potential for one side to be shaded out, the vines on both sides of the trellis receive enough sunlight to grow and produce fruit. This could be due to the fact that my trellises are located in an area with ample sunlight and minimal shade from surrounding structures or trees.
It is worth mentioning that the success of an East-West trellis can also depend on the specific climate and location. In regions with longer daylight hours and more intense sunlight, an East-West trellis may be more feasible. Additionally, the type of plants being grown on the trellis can also play a role in determining the direction. Some plants may be more tolerant of partial shade and can still thrive on an East-West trellis.
To summarize, while the general recommendation is to run a trellis North-South for equal sunlight exposure, there are instances where an East-West trellis can still be successful. Factors such as climate, location, and plant tolerance to shade should be considered when deciding on the direction of a trellis. Ultimately, observing the specific conditions of your garden and experimenting with different orientations can help determine the best direction for your trellis.
