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How to Make Your Yard More Private: Fences, Hedges, and Creative Solutions

Create Seclusion in Your Outdoor Space

Privacy fence example — Fence for backyard privacy

The fastest privacy solution is a fence — it blocks views, provides enclosure and safety (great for kids and pets). Choose materials and style complementing your home. Hint: Before building, check if existing structures (garage, house) can create privacy with screening on just one or two sides.

Click here for more on building fences

Hedges: Living Privacy Walls

Mixed hedge planting — Mixed shrub hedge for natural look

If fences feel too stark, grow a hedge. Every region has suitable shrub varieties. For a natural look, mix shrub species — add small trees for height, color, texture. Layer plants into a mosaic. For formal looks, shear regularly (timing depends on species). Hint: Keep hedge base wider than top for long-term health.

Here are the best plants for hedges.
Get tips for pruning shrubs.

Easy-Growing Hedge Plants

Hedge plant varieties — Recommended hedge plants

Boxwood (Buxus sempervirens), Zones 6-8
Columnar juniper (Juniperus scopulorum 'Skyrocket'), Zones 4-7
Columnar white pine (Pinus strobus 'Fastigiata'), Zones 3-9
English laurel (Prunus laurocerasus), Zones 6-9
Pittosporum tobira, Zones 9-10
Privet (Ligustrum vulgare), Zones 5-8
Yaupon holly (Ilex vomitoria), Zones 8-10
Yew (Taxus x media), Zones 5-7

Berms: Elevated Privacy

Berm with plantings — Berm adds height and privacy

Berms (miniature hills) add planting height for privacy and showcase smaller plants at eye level. Their sloping sides drain well — ideal for rock garden plants and dry-soil species. Plant trees/shrubs on berms for physical and sound barriers. Include rocks for stability. Hint: 1 foot height per 4 feet width prevents mulch runoff.

Pergolas: Partial Privacy Structures

Vine-covered pergola — Pergola creates private nook

Pergolas add privacy to smaller spaces. Vine-covered, they create shady, secluded nooks for benches or patios, plus year-round structure. Layer privacy: vines alone, add lattice panels between columns, hang outdoor fabric curtains. Click here for more on pergola ideas

Lattice Panels: Targeted Screening

Lattice panel with vines — Lattice with climbing vines

For spot screening, use inexpensive lattice panels with a small garden bed. Tidy vines integrate them into the landscape. Match vine size to structure — large vines crush lattice; small vines won't cover large arbors.