You can build a very effective barrier using natural landscaping elements. Trees, shrubs and hedges can be attractive and provide ample privacy and noise reduction in your backyard.
In addition to privacy, planting a row of trees can provide shelter and shade for your backyard. When planning your landscape, choose from fast-growing tree varieties such as eucalyptus, sycamore, weeping willow and evergreens. Evergreens provide full privacy all year round, and the same goes for shrubbery and hedges.
Planting a tall evergreen hedge is a natural way to create a private enclave in your backyard. Hedges also decrease neighborhood noise and reduce harsh winds. American Arborvitae, Green Giant Arborvitae, Emerald Arborvitae and wax myrtle are popular choices, and can grow to be more than 10’ in height. These hedges must be kept trimmed and manicured or they might grow too high. Prune hedges regularly to promote health, growth and density. Once per month during growing season should be adequate to keep the hedge at peak growth and shape so it will look its best.
Depending on your climate, you can create a bamboo screen by planting bamboo trees instead of building a fence. Bamboo grows quickly and is a good green alternative to regular fencing. When using bamboo for a privacy screen though, be sure and plant the clumping variety in the ground. The roots of this type clump together and don’t invade the surrounding area as quickly as the “running” type, which can spread quickly out of control around your yard or your neighbors’ yards. Avoid this type unless planted in deep trenches or in plastic or stone planters where it cannot spread out of control.
