Natural privacy fences are visual barriers created with trees and shrubs. Privacy trees are a rewarding way to keep your yard feeling secluded and homey without the cost and work of a wooden privacy fence.
This project near Springfield, MO was created to provide the owners of this barndominium with a private seating area on the side of their home. We installed trees suited to the climate, and added shrubs that would grow to beautifully take up space.
Creating a Year-Round Privacy Fence with Plants
The Inspiration
Since this project was at Kevin and Michelle’s new barndominium home, landscaping was one of the first things Kevin planned. He knew he wanted a private outdoor area where friends and family could gather to feel safe and secluded.
The patio and fire pit area was a must-have, so it fit to make any needed privacy fencing out of live plants. Evergreens were a given, and Kevin especially loves hydrangeas, so he knew those would be included as well.
The Build
The privacy fence build lasted almost 4 years. It’s normal to tackle landscaping projects in stages, and that’s exactly what he did. The essential hardscape was installed, then trees were planted, followed by smaller shrubs and flowers.
Suggested Landscape Preservation
- Yearly re-mulching for plant health and general upkeep
- Tree and shrub pruning
- Tree fertilization and health checks (for pests and disease)
- Clearing out sad flowers in the fall to make room for new Spring growth
Living Privacy Fence Timeline
2015
The bed was created using large landscaping rock, weed barrier, and mulch.
Since tree growth is important for natural privacy fence functionality, those had to be added in the first year.
2017
Two years later, the grass was planted creating a welcoming space.
2018
The trees had grown by the next year, and there was plenty of space for shrubs and flowers.
2019
Hydrangeas, butterfly bush, and lots of other perennials had been planted and given enough time to expand. Besides being gorgeous, these plants serve as privacy screens for the patio area.
2021
Here’s an update in Spring. The perennial flowers are still coming in, while the evergreens and hydrangea are serving their purpose.
