Obelisk prices
Alice Hamlyn
Posts: 4
I'm looking at steel obelisks for our back garden, and feeling a bit unsure about the massive difference in prices. I understand that quality will vary depending on price, but...for something that's going to get grown all over, what's a sensible price to pay for a 2m steel obelisk? They'll be used to support clematis, mainly,
For example, I've seen £145 for one tall obelisk from Harrod and £65 for two at Argos. Anyone bought either, or another brand, and any opinions? Thank you.
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Ive just bought two 7ft steel obelisks from Gap Garden Products via Amazon. They cost £55.99 each and are listed as Rose Towers. They are very sturdy and I'm pleased with them.
Lucky you! I'm surprised by the vast range of prices - the main differences seem to be in solid steel v tubular, the fixtures and fittings (eg, special concreting in options in some cases) and the durability of the finish - some have a 10 year guarantee for example. And thanks Yviestevie - that's seems like a very fair price. My main two things would be the look and how durable - I imagine it's a right pain to disentangle a clematis from an obelisk that's rusted or fallen apart!
Don't buy tubular. They break/snap/rust/die of metal fatigue very quickly, especially if your garden is windy as the clematis will add extra wind resistance.
I have several styles/shapes/sizes of solid metal obelisk for my clems and have paid anything form 20 to 80 euros plus a fancy arty one I ordered from a chap at Chelsea flower show in 2007 which as just over £100 on special offer. They are all very strong and look good on their own in winter when I've taken off most of the dead clematis growth to reduce wind resistance.
"We don't stop playing because we grow old; we grow old because we stop playing." - George Bernard Shaw
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I buy mine form Malvern show. There is a bloke who goes every year and sell a variety of heights and widths, He also does some flea markets. I go for the rust metal ones. Last year an 8ft one cost me £20. excellent for growing up blends in with garden and isn't too stark if by itself in winter.
I know not everyone can go there - just saying flea markets, car boots you may be surprised what you will find locally made.
Tubular ones are only a few quid, but will probably only last a year maybe 2.
Thanks everyone. I'll say no to tubular then. @Matty2 - by rust metal, do you mean corton steel? I had a quick Google for corton steel ones, but came up with very little - so I'm wondering if there's a better search term to use. I like the idea of something weathered.
(Found a whole load by just typing "natural rust obelisks", so I'm all good!)
I have similar questions.
What would be price range for a decent obelisk? I am not looking for special looks, as I am going to put a lot of them in a row and would prefer a simple design so it would be easy to pull off dead vines at end of season.
Are "natural rust obelisks" strong enough to last for few years?