Landscaping for Privacy: Using Plants for More than Aesthetics

A common sight in higher-end neighborhoods are lush, well-kept foliage rising as high as the outer walls of the home on the property. This so-called privacy planting is growing even more in popularity, as homeowners realize it is an easy—and seamless, in terms of the overall design of the place—way to take advantage of that old adage “good fences make good neighbors.”

What Can You Use for Privacy Plants?

It is straightforward to forego obtrusive fences and walls by using a multitude of plant species. Although the effects of having bamboo share the space with cypress can be dazzling to the eye, this privacy plant has a positive effect on the environment by effectively reducing your carbon footprint while also extending the borders of your interior living space if you have a back and front yard. Going out onto your front porch still gives you a feeling of seclusion, while also allowing you to enjoy the outdoors.

Although a sort of spatial seclusion is the emphasis, there’s no doubt that privacy planting allows you to explore your artistic side. Evergreen trees such as Arborvitae and Thuja grow quickly and can vault as tall as the second floor of your home by the second year after you’ve had them planted. They can complement any yard! If you already have a fence up but wish to beautify it and close off the many spaces in-between the pickets, consider options like:

• Clematis
• Hops
• Ivy

Rose of Sharon is also a good choice. It’s a lovely bud—but leaves fall off in winter; therefore, it is primarily used in summertime planting.

Deciding on the Pattern of Your Privacy Planting

Of course, the overall pattern must have an eye towards effectiveness; but there’s a lot of room to implement your artistic touch. The first option to consider is a mix of shrubs, deciduous trees, and the layered look that brings these seamlessly together.

Shade trees can really vault upward dozens of feet, shielding a second-story terrace and windows from being easily viewed without obstructing your view of the city or region proper. Similarly, the leaves and branches allow space for sunlight to stream through so that your property is not in darkness during the day.

Landscaping in Bethesda & Potomac, MD

The above are just a few things to consider when thinking about the wonderful benefits and functionality that privacy planting can provide for your property. Contact the landscaping professionals at Botanical Decorators for more ideas. We can help transform your yard into a beautiful outdoor living space where you can enjoy privacy!