Wandering eyes and noise pollution are a problem when you are trying to enjoy a little outdoor time. Now that the rainy season is here in the Pacific Northwest most of us don’t think about our outdoor spaces but now is the best time to start planning for next year. With a little planning and planting now your outdoor space can be both private and enjoyable from the moment the sun breaks through the clouds in spring.
Here are some ways to help your yard become a great place for some alone time.
Privacy Hedge
Planting a privacy hedge can be a beautiful way to get year-round privacy. Most cities do not have height restrictions for hedges and the greenery can block neighborly noises and prying eyes in areas where houses are densely packed together. Plant a hedge that will be green year-round and plan that you may need to prune a few times a year depending on how fast it grows and the type of hedge it is. The payoff in the extra effort will be the beauty of a living fence.
Fences
Of course, fences are classic ways to create privacy and can be a backdrop for plantings, garden boxes and patios. There is no wait time for a fence to grow so it can be the best solution for new patios and spaces that need instant privacy. Fences can be the best solution for small spaces or side yards where space is at a premium. The hard lines of a fence can be softened with flowers and shrubs.
Layered Plantings
Larger spaces often need depth. Planting a mixture of trees, shrubs and flowers creates a natural look that give depth and texture to your outdoor space while providing shade and beauty along with privacy and noise reduction.
Water
Water is a elegant way to block noise from nearby roads and noisy nuisances that can cut into alone time in your yard. Water features can range from small bubblers to large focal points. However, water can be loud if over built for a space. A landscape professional can help you plan the perfect water feature for your space.
Stone Wall Topped with Plantings
Walls combined with plantings can be a good way to disrupt sight lines and create visual appeal. Fences can also be added to tops of walls for a cottage feeling. Good drainage is necessary so plan accordingly. Low stone walls can also break up space and with added trees and taller plants can be a good barrier between a home and a road.
Creating an Oasis of Privacy
Walls combined with plantings can be a good way to disrupt sight lines and create visual appeal. Fences can also be added to tops of walls for a cottage feeling. Good drainage is necessary so plan accordingly. Low stone walls can also break up space and with added trees and taller plants can be a good barrier between a home and a road.