Using Apple and Birch Branches
Using salvaged apple and birch branches, this quick weekend project transformed an aging garden fence into a rustic focal point.
Here's a glimpse of a "before" picture and the somewhat pathetic fence around the garden:
Fourteen Years of Temporary
It was initially put up years ago to keep Bruegger, then Linus out. It was made of furring strips and chicken wire and was only planned to be temporary. Of course, 14 years is temporary, but nonetheless...a little longer than planned! But I have to tell you - it still beat the original garden fence, what we thought would keep our beagle named Bruegger out -
Abject failure!!
A Saturday Morning Project
Anyway, as is so often the case, this was one of those spur-of-the-moment projects. It was a Saturday morning and I was looking around the yard for a quick project. My eyes settled on the garden fence...the rest as they say, is history. About five minutes later the old fence was gone...
Setting the Posts
I started out with some post holes. Lucky for me it's been a very wet spring so the post holes (three of them) took about 20 minutes. Then I stood back and planned what to do. Off to Lowes to get a couple posts, crawled under the back porch and pulled out a few 2x4s from an earlier project - and I was under way!
This picture is pretty obvious...posts in post holes. Two things to notice though - first, I love my post level (that green thing on one of the posts), it really makes a one man project a lot easier!
This picture is pretty obvious...posts in post holes. Two things to notice though - first, I love my post level (that green thing on one of the posts), it really makes a one man project a lot easier!
The Cardboard Trick
Then...and here's the BIG one - I had presence of mind enough to pull out some cardboard to put the dirt on instead of just in the yard. I know this may not seem like much, but I can't tell you the messes I've made over the years just because I wouldn't think of that until too late!
Building the Frames
After the posts were in, I built some frames and just used deck screws to fix them to the posts. As you can see, I did a semi-wattle here. Last summer we lost one of the apple trees and a large part of the birch trees, so we saved the branches with something like this in mind...
It was starting to look like something, almost like a wattled fence! We ran out of birch branches, but figured over time we would find more branches and add to it!
Just another shot...
Then it was just a matter of staining...I used Baer Semi-transparent deck stain in "coffee" color. I thought with everything else in the yard things were starting to look a little too monochromatic...thought this would be a nice contrast.
So there you have it. The 3 hour, $30, semi-wattled fence!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a wattled fence?
A traditional wattle fence is made by weaving flexible branches between upright stakes. It has been used for centuries as both a functional barrier and decorative garden feature.
What is a semi-wattled fence?
A semi-wattled fence combines conventional framing with woven or layered natural branches to create the appearance and charm of a traditional wattle fence while providing additional strength.
What branches work best for a wattle fence?
Freshly cut, flexible branches such as willow, hazel, birch, apple, dogwood, and similar species work well. The more flexible the branch, the easier it is to weave.
Can you use fallen branches for a garden fence?
Yes. Salvaged branches from storm damage, pruning, or removed trees can make beautiful rustic fencing while reducing waste.
How long does a branch fence last?
The lifespan depends on the wood species and climate. Decorative branch panels may last several years, while structural elements should be made from pressure-treated or rot-resistant materials.
Do wattle fences keep dogs out?
They can discourage pets, but determined dogs may still find weak spots. Combining sturdy framing with woven branches creates a stronger barrier.
Should garden fence posts be pressure treated?
For any posts set into the ground, pressure-treated lumber is recommended to improve longevity and resist rot.
What stain works well on rustic garden fences?
Semi-transparent deck stains are a popular choice because they protect the wood while allowing the natural texture and character to remain visible.
Is a wattle fence expensive to build?
Not necessarily. Using branches gathered from your own property can significantly reduce material costs.
Can a rustic fence become a landscape feature?
Absolutely. Natural fencing often blends beautifully into gardens and can become a focal point in its own right.
Why save branches after removing trees?
Pruned and fallen branches can often be repurposed into trellises, edging, plant supports, and decorative fencing projects.
Are spontaneous projects sometimes the best ones?
Often they are. Some of the most satisfying improvements happen simply because you looked around one Saturday morning and decided to start.
Keywords
semi wattled garden fence, DIY garden fence, wattle fence, rustic garden fence, branch fence, apple branch fence, birch branch fence, budget garden projects, natural garden fencing, recycled garden materials, House 173