Good Neighbors Plant Fences
Laura Brewster, Anoka County Extension Master Gardener
A little privacy can be hard to come by, especially in urban and suburban settings where neighbors can be close. Wood and vinyl fencing can be harsh and expensive. A beautiful and cost-effective alternative is to create a living fence with plants such as shrubs, vines, tall flowers, and grasses. A plant privacy screen can also reduce wind, noise, and dust.
When designing a living fence, there are several site considerations to evaluate before you select plants and start digging:
How much room do you have? Plan space for shrubs based on their mature size diameter; when plants are too close, they compete for resources and fungal diseases can occur.
Are there safety concerns, such as power lines or road visibility? Always call your local utility company before you begin digging and check your city ordinances regarding the right-of-way.
Do you know where your property line begins and ends?
What is your soil type, pH and level of drainage?
How many hours of sunlight does the area receive?
Planting a fence will require some patience as it takes time for the plants to fill in enough to create privacy. One way to reduce wait time is to plant two or more staggered rows of shrubs. Consider planting a variety of shrubs, as this will add visual interest and protect against complete hedge destruction if a pest or disease strikes.
Native plants are a great option, as they are best adapted to the conditions in your area and have a symbiotic relationship with the insects and wildlife there. One suggestion is witch hazel (Hamamelus virginiana), a native Minnesota shrub. Growing 10-15 feet tall, it tolerates all light conditions, is generally pest-free and provides excellent late-season interest with its bright yellow blooms. Another good choice is American hazelnut (Corylus americana). Reaching a maximum of 15 feet tall, it's just the right size for a privacy hedge, and it produces edible nuts.
One of the most popular hedge plants is arborvitae. American arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis) has a huge number of cultivated varieties to choose from. They grow quickly, stay green in winter, tolerate a range of soil types, and come in many sizes. They require full sun and consistent moisture, and they provide a stunning backdrop for flowering plants.
There are countless choices for living fences. Your local nursery can help you select plants that are most appropriate for your yard. If you have limited space to work with, it is possible to create privacy with tall grasses and tall flowering perennials. Try big bluestem (Andropogon gerardii) grass in full sun, which can reach a height of eight feet. Pair it with the yellow flowers of cup plant or compass plant, and you’ll have a screen that is both functional and visually striking.
Planting a full or partial privacy screen will add softer boundaries and natural beauty to your property. Your neighbors will likely enjoy it just as much as you do!
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