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 From Pillar To Post 
A well designed garden contains groups of compatible plants, yes, but it
also includes structural elements that remain in the garden through all
four seasons, and vertical elements that visually tie the garden to the
sky. Structure, often called the bones of a garden, can come from
manmade constructions such as stone walls, fences, and arbors, or from
hedges and evergreen shrubs.
The vertical features, which often are part of the garden's bones, might be small trees, shrubs, or the aforementioned fences and arbors. But what if the garden is too small for a tree or an arbor? In small spaces, a simple post can function as part of the garden's structure, a vertical element, and a place for seasonal display. It provides a place to grow annual or perennial climbers, mount a sculpture, and decorate the garden for a holiday or special occasion. And best of all, the installation of a garden post is easily accomplished on a weekend.
As you can see in the photograph, the square pieces of lumber are stacked on top of the post, and screwed down. Caulk the places where the boards meet, and fill any knot holes. If you want a smooth finish, sand with the sandpaper before painting. Finally, paint the post in a color that will harmonize with your house and garden.
By C.L. Fornari |
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Dig a hole about two feet deep, and place your post in the hole...use a
level to make sure the post is straight, and fill in the soil around it,
packing it down as you fill. (Check with the level as you fill
sometimes the post will move as the dirt is placed around it.)
Your post can be used for a plant support as well as for the display
of a garden ornament. Climbing roses, annual vines such as Thunbergia
alata (black-eyed Susan vine) or sweet peas, or small perennial
vines such as Clematis are all good choices for growing up your post. Be
aware that the larger vines such as Wisteria or Honeysuckle would
quickly overwhelm your construction.