Upcycling an Old Box Spring into a Garden Trellis

Updated at: 25/05/2025

Discarding old furniture often feels wasteful, especially when the materials themselves are still robust and full of potential. That discarded box spring gathering dust in your garage? It might be the unexpected hero of your next gardening project. Instead of heading to the landfill, consider the possibilities of upcycling – transforming something old into something new and useful. A sturdy box spring, with its inherent structure and surprisingly durable coils, presents a fantastic opportunity to create a unique and attractive garden trellis. This repurposing project not only benefits the environment by reducing waste, but also adds a touch of rustic charm to your outdoor space, potentially saving you money on expensive store-bought trellises.

This guide will walk you through the simple yet rewarding process of transforming that old box spring into a beautiful and functional garden trellis, perfect for supporting climbing plants like roses, beans, or even cucumbers. Ready to get started? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions to upcycle your box spring and create a stunning addition to your garden.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Flathead screwdriver
  • Hammer (implied)
  • Nail puller (implied)
Safety Guidelines
  • Always wear gloves and safety glasses when handling the box spring. Metal parts can be sharp and rusty.
  • Ensure the box spring is thoroughly cleaned before repurposing to remove dust, insects, and any potential allergens.
  • Securely fasten the upcycled trellis to prevent it from tipping over or causing injury, especially if using it to support heavy climbing plants.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Box Spring

    • Remove the cloth covering from the box spring.
    Remove the cloth covering from the box spring.
    Prepare the Box Spring

  2. Remove the Metal Frame

    • Pry off the metal frame using a flathead screwdriver. Remove staples securing the metal to the wooden frame.
    Pry off the metal frame using a flathead screwdriver. Remove staples securing the metal to the wooden frame.
    Remove the Metal Frame

  3. Remove the Springs

    • Remove the inner springs.
    Remove the inner springs.
    Remove the Springs

  4. Clean the Wooden Frame

    • Remove any remaining nails from the wooden frame pieces.
    Remove any remaining nails from the wooden frame pieces.
    Clean the Wooden Frame

  5. Assemble and Install the Trellis

    • Use the remaining metal grid (from the box spring) or alternative steel grid from a hardware store as a trellis for your garden.
    • Attach the trellis to your garden structure (e.g., greenhouse) using hooks or other appropriate fasteners. Alternatively, rest the trellis directly on the ground or lean it against a wall.
    Attach the trellis to your garden structure (e.g., greenhouse) using hooks or other appropriate fasteners. Alternatively, rest the trellis directly on the ground or lean it against a wall.Attach the trellis to your garden structure (e.g., greenhouse) using hooks or other appropriate fasteners. Alternatively, rest the trellis directly on the ground or lean it against a wall.
    Assemble and Install the Trellis

Read more: DIY Upcycled Bed Frame: A Step-by-Step Guide

Tips

  • The staples securing the metal frame can be tough to remove, use a sturdy flathead screwdriver.
  • Be careful when removing staples and nails to avoid injury.
  • Steel grid from hardware stores is a readily available alternative if you don't want to use the box spring's metal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Insufficient Support Structure

Reason: Using a weak or unstable box spring frame that cannot adequately support the weight of climbing plants as they grow.
Solution: Reinforce the frame with additional wood supports or metal brackets before attaching climbing plants.

2. Improper Material Selection

Reason: Choosing a box spring material that rots or degrades easily when exposed to the elements (e.g., untreated wood, certain fabrics).
Solution: Use weather-resistant materials, like treated wood or a durable metal mesh, and apply a protective sealant to the box spring frame.

3. Inadequate Plant Support

Reason: Failing to provide enough support for climbing plants to grow vertically and prevent them from overwhelming or damaging the box spring.
Solution: Add extra trellis netting, twine, or other plant supports to guide and distribute the weight of the plants evenly.

FAQs

What type of box spring is best for this project?
A box spring with a sturdy metal frame and relatively tight coils is ideal. Avoid box springs with severely damaged frames or significantly rusted coils. The tighter the coil spacing, the better support your trellis will provide.