[Runwell-Steve]

Hi

I wonder if anyone has any ideas.  Along one side of my garden I have a really low fence (my neighbours).  On my side of the fence I want to grow some Apple trees, trained along wires, to try and give us a little bit  privacy, while producing some fruit.  I'm not looking for a thick hedge or anything, just a light screening.

Anyway, to the point,  at each end of where I want the trees planted I need to put some fence posts in the ground, (I need about 6 foot above ground), and then I need to put some tight wires between them to train the apples trees to.

These fence posts are going to need to be really secure otherwise They will just lean inwards when I attach the wires and pull them tight,  anyone got any bright ideas, I can sink them in concrete, but will this be enough.

Thanks

[Lardman]

They'll rot over time in concrete and the stress from the wire won't help.

Id get some metposts either the spike type (which can be a PITA to get vertical) or the bolt down type and create a concrete shoe.

[Runwell-Steve]

Ah thanks

I like the look of the bolt down Met Posts, as even if the post does eventually rot, i can just replace the post while leaving the rest in place.

Thanks for that, I hadn't come across them before.

So I assume a big hole full of concrete, made level on top is all I need.  Then the posts, and some of them big metal bolt rawl bolts.

[DD.]

Or you could set the bolts in the concrete before it sets, then simply slip the post supports over them.

[Lardman]

Or you could set the bolts in the concrete before it sets, then simply slip the post supports over them.

or even threaded bar  - if you're putting the bolts in permanently make sure you use at least A2 stainless, otherwise you'll regret it 

Personally Id level the surface, drill the holes and use plugs and stainless coach bolts.

[8doubles]

And put a 45 degree bracing post inside each of the straining  posts .

[Runwell-Steve]

And put a 45 degree bracing post inside each of the straining  posts .

Thanks, I had considered that as well.  If the diagonal joins the upright about 2 feet from the ground that should give it a bit more support.

Now just to find some strong wire to go between the posts.

[Lardman]

Now just to find some strong wire to go between the posts.

If its going to be a permanent feature Id do it properly with galv wire, vine eyes and turn buckles, cheap enough from somewhere like toolstation.

[Runwell-Steve]

Thats really helpful Lardman.

Thanks very much.

You have pointed me to just what I was looking for.  When it's daylight tomorrow I just need to measure the total length of wire I need then I can order all the bits.

[sunshineband]

This has been quite helpful re straining wires etc -- thanks guys 

[Griffete]

Hi there the best way to stop your post from bending is to put a strainer post on them...
I suggest you get 2 4x4 post dig them in the ground 2ft deep where you want them...fill with postmix  then attach your strainers to them.... also put postmix in the strainer hole to stop them moving...here are a few illustration.

here you can see the strainer on a straight run
  

Here you can see the strainer on a corner run

[Runwell-Steve]

Thanks, thats excellent.

I have ordered most of the parts now, just need to go and get the fence posts from the Timber merchant next week then I can get started.