PLANT WHAT WHERE | Screening For Privacy

As modern cities evolve, homes are becoming smaller, closer, and often overlooked by one or more neighbours. Privacy screening is becoming a major issue for landscapers, as homeowners seek to create a personal space in which to enjoy their leisure time.

While selecting for height is usually the main focus, equally important is what is happening below the ground. With smaller house blocks come smaller garden beds, greater proximity to homes and structures (both the client’s and their neighbours), and tighter spaces in which to work.

Key considerations for selecting appropriate screening plants include:
• How big does the mature plant grow, and how big is the root system?
• What water and nutrition will this plant require?
• Does it need any ongoing maintenance, will there be access for pruning?

Deciduous screening trees can add visual interest to the garden throughout the year as leaves change colour, and eventually drop off. They have the advantage of letting in light during the Winter months (which can be important if planted near windows), but may not be as effective as privacy screens during that period.