How to Make Metal Plant Supports (Like Monty Don)

Fortunately, as with many gardening issues, Monty Don has a fantastic solution – metal plant supports. In the Gardeners’ World video “How to make steel-rod plant supports”, Monty guides gardeners through the process of crafting their own plant supports – and we think it’s a great idea!

Read on to learn more about how you can develop heavy duty metal plant supports for your own garden...

So, why exactly is Monty Don championing large metal plant supports? Well, there are several important benefits for you and your plants...

Wondering how to make metal plant supports like Monty Don? It’s far simpler than you’d think.

First, you’ll need to think carefully about the right time to put in your metal plant supports. It’s best to add supports for your plants before any new growth in the summer months, so you’ll usually need to add them early in the year.

You’ll only need one item to create large metal plant supports, and that’s steel rods. Specifically, you’ll need 6mm diameter steel rods, with 3m being the best length for DIY supports.

To make your Monty Don plant supports, follow these few simple steps...

Bend the steel rod

Take your steel rod and bend it around a large, curved object – a tree trunk is a good option, if you have one in your garden. This should make a croquet hoop shape, with a curved top and two roughly even straight legs. There’s no need for any extra equipment, as the 6mm diameter rods are easy to bend just by hand.

Position the curve between wooden boards

Next, you’ll need two solid wooden boards, such as scaffolding boards. Place the curved top of the steel rod between the two boards, leaving the straight legs hanging out of the end.

Bend the legs

Finally, stand or place weights on the planks to hold them in position, then bend the straight legs of the rod upwards to create the legs of your Monty Don metal plant support. And voila, the project is complete!

If you’re new to gardening DIY, then you might be wondering where to purchase 6mm steel rod. These are easy to buy from online steel suppliers, like The Metal Store.

In need of a specific size? No matter how large your plant, you’ll find the perfect size steel rod to keep it safe and secure. We stock 3 metre and 6 metre lengths – and we offer unlimited free cuts per length, so you can get just the size you’re looking for. Each rod makes one plant support, so order as many as you need for your plants.

The plants which will benefit the most from large metal plant supports are tall perennials, particularly those with heavy flowers. Here are some beautiful flowers that will really appreciate the extra support...

Dahlias

With their bright, colourful flowers, Dahlias make a striking statement in any garden. However, their bold flowers can become very top-heavy, leading them to droop. The support required will depend on the size of the dahlia, but the largest flowers will benefit from heavy duty plant supports.

Peonies

Characterised by beautiful, frothing flowers, peonies are a graceful addition to your garden. Unfortunately, their large heads can break in windy or rainy weather. Utilising a metal plant support ensures that these stunning flowers can be seen in all their glory.

Delphiniums

In shades of deep blue and purple, delphiniums bring drama to your flowerbeds. Their long stems featuring groups of tiny blooms are breath-taking, but they’re also at risk of breakage from a strong gust of wind.

Roses

Dreaming of a traditional English garden? Shrub roses are a truly romantic feature for your outdoor spaces. The heavy weight of their blooms can be a real strain on the stems, however, so using a metal plant support to keep them secure is a good option.

Oriental poppies

Inspiring and delicate, oriental poppies are a great choice for growing in your borders. In many cases they can also benefit from the extra security of a metal support.