Landscaping for privacy

Some of life’s pleasures include being able to sit on the verandah in the sun sipping a quiet cuppa, gardening without interruption or having friends over for a weekend barbecue. But if you’re constantly disturbed by neighbours who are also entertaining, mowing the lawn or who can see straight into your backyard, then it’s probably time to start thinking about erecting some privacy screens.

Fencing and walls

Installing a new fence or wall will require council approval, but both can increase your privacy considerably. A brick or concrete wall offers protection for a front yard, but if it cuts out the light you might want to find another way to do it.

Screens

Trellises and screens are a quick and easy way to organise some privacy. Put one at the exposed end of a balcony, verandah or even in the garden, then plant flowering vines nearby so they’ll cover the gaps as they grow up the framework. You’ll find a thick vine will absorb a surprising amount of noise, giving both you and the neighbours some relief. Alternatively, a free-standing partition made from galvanised poles and metallic mesh filled with stones can be situated strategically to block the view into your garden.

Trees and shrubs

Depending on the available space in your garden, a variety of trees can be used as screening between your garden and the surrounding houses. Take care when choosing your plants, however, as some will grow tall but after a while afford no low coverage at all. It’s also advisable to avoid Leightons Green or Leyland Cyprus, which needs to be maintained constantly. Known as the ‘spite hedge’ this conifer grows tall very quickly and can block out not only prying neighbours but also the sunlight; in fact, some states have passed a bill relating to hedge disputes.

Clumping bamboo makes good screen planting, especially for a smaller garden as it doesn’t take up a lot of room. Photinia, Vibernum or Rhododendron are good for filling larger spaces.

Covered area

You’ll probably need council approval before you build it, but a pergola or covered area will provide an extra room with protection not only from the neighbours, but also from the weather in all seasons.