Just like our products, our story begins with a farm.

In 2000, Richard Barnes founded Tanglewood Berry Farm, a small, 9,000-row-ft. operation in Wells County, Indiana, with seven varieties of raspberries and blackberries.

When the farm needed more sophisticated trellising methods, Barnes responded to the challenge. Drawing on more than 30 years of experience in product design, manufacturing and marketing, he led the charge to develop the durable, modular system that eventually launched Trellis Growing Systems in 2007.

Notable Milestones

  • Jerry Branstrator joined TGS in the fall of 2008 as a partner. Branstrator’s strengths are in engineering, manufacturing and product development.
  • Research on the RCA trellis systems started at the USDA-ARS in Kearneysville, WV, in 1991, headed by Dr. Fumiomi Takeds, Lead Scientist.
  • TGS has been awarded Phase I and Phase II USDA-SBIR grants for the research and development of the “Modular Trellis System for Brambles.” TGS has subcontracted research with the USDA-ARS and Cornell University for both of these grants and is presently working with more than 12 universities, foundations and corporations on trellising-related research, product development and field trials.
  • TGS has received grants from the State of Indiana Century 21 Fund for related research and product development.
  • In 2009, TGS formed a strategic partnership with Bedford Reinforced Plastics for trellising product design, manufacturing, and market strategy and development. This includes TGS Investment Group.
  • TGS has been awarded a Phase I USDA-SBIR grant for the research and development of the “Modular Shade Structure for High Value Fruits and Vegetables”.

System Benefits

Exceptional weatherability, strength and low maintenance with proven cane management processes are just a few of the benefits of TGS trellising systems. These labor-saving designs are easy to install and simple to maintain. We also offer accessories, such as hi-tensile and monofilament wire, anchors, tools, and various ground and winter covers to establish your trellis system plantation.

If you ever have a question or need advice on your trellising requirements and specifications or best growing practices, our Certified Crop Advisors (CCAs) are available to help — just contact us here.

August 1, 2011, Trellis Growing Systems LLC was awarded a Phase I USDA-SBIR grant titled “Modular Shade Structure for High Value Fruits and Vegetables”.