Like many of my fellow bloggers, I garden on a smallish city lot. While the small space is perfect for my current time & energy constraints, the close proximity (combined with an HOA that views fences as "unfriendly") causes some privacy issues. I've managed to seclude most of my back garden by planting shrubs & trees along the fence line. However, the most critical portion (the patio area where we like to sit & dine) was left exposed because the previous owners had poured concrete right to the edge of the property line. You can see from the 2009 photo below that I've tried (unsuccessfully) to obscure the neighbors view by lining up my containers along the fence:
You can also see how close our houses were built to each other. While I like my neighbors just fine, I've longed for some privacy screening since the day I moved in. Initially I thought the only solution was a wall and I explored every option from stucco to rock but the cost was high and I was limited to a 4' height maximum (by HOA rules.) While 4' is better than nothing, it wouldn't provide me with the personal sanctuary I desired so I never proceeded. Finally this spring, the solution that should have presented itself years ago, occurred to me. Cut the concrete and plant evergreens:
4 1/2' tall 'Emerald Green Arborvitae were placed side by side along the 25' length of open fence. I have never felt happier or more hopeful about my patio possibilities! In a year or two, the height and width of the Arborvitaes willI give me 100% seclusion & create the hideaway/retreat I've been seeking. A place to read, putter, relax, plant, etc., in a world all to myself. Where I can sip cappucino in my pajama's, if I choose. You get the idea...
Another view from a different angle:
The Arborvitae that's leaning (in the center of the photo) is an extra that wasn't planted. It's sitting on a section of concrete I chose not to cut out. That space was left open for a future fireplace! I can't wait!
Another garden dream realized. I feel so lucky. Now you see what else has been keeping me so busy this spring.
p.s. Just so we don't have a post without flowers ~ the orchid my neighbor gave me is blooming:
When she passed it on a year & a half ago, it was not in good shape. The roots were brittle and dried out and the leaves were soft and very pliable (when they should be much stiffer.) I've been nursing it back to health and feel very rewarded, especially when I wasn't sure I could save it.
Very very nice on the new evergreen screen. We all need privacy from our neighbors even if we love our next door neighbors. Beautiful orchid.
Posted by: tina | May 31, 2011 at 06:58 AM
Nice orchid.
Nice plan on the patio. I can't imagine not having privacy on our back porch. I'm out there at times in much less than pj's. Good for you for finding what sounds like a fantastic solution.
Posted by: Victoria | May 31, 2011 at 07:14 AM
Great idea for privacy, it really looks great! I'm not surprised you got that orchid to bloom, your neighbor might want it back :)
Posted by: Catherine | May 31, 2011 at 07:52 AM
You clever girl~It looks great, too. Privacy is important when we live so close to suburban neighbors. gail PS the orchid is beautiful
Posted by: Gail | May 31, 2011 at 03:24 PM
The arborvitae row looks fabulous and it will do just the trick. I've always believed fences make GOOD neighbors. Too bad the HOA doesn't feel that way, but this is a great alternative. Beautiful orchid!
Posted by: Grace | May 31, 2011 at 07:46 PM
Love it Kathleen - perfect solution and so much nicer than a fence! I can't wait to get up there to see it. You have been very busy, and it is paying off nicely!
Looking forward to Saturday - we need to plan a time - let me know when you want to meet at Sturtz!
Posted by: Dana | May 31, 2011 at 07:55 PM
Wow, digging out concrete---good for you!! You will have a private sitting area in no time. What a difference!
Posted by: Janet, The Queen of Seaford | June 01, 2011 at 07:31 AM
That must have been some job removing the concrete...good solution though. Beautiful orchid.
Posted by: Darla | June 01, 2011 at 07:32 AM
Darla and Janet ~ I hired out the cutting & removing of the concrete ~ I have done a lot of hard work this spring but that was TOO MUCH for me!
Thanks to everyone for your encouraging comments. I hope those Arborvitaes grow super fast!
Posted by: Kathleen | June 01, 2011 at 08:01 AM
Both the Arbor Vitae and the containers along the edges are excellent ideas. Thanks! I might follow your lead for some challenging edges. Very nice!
Posted by: PlantPostings | June 02, 2011 at 09:33 PM
Your new hedge looks great, and just right for the space! A double blessing of both beauty and privacy. The future outdoor fireplace sounds great too.
Posted by: Sweetbay | June 02, 2011 at 10:28 PM
The evergreens are a fantastic idea for privacy, and they are so lovely to look at year round!
Posted by: Kala | June 03, 2011 at 12:48 AM
Hi Kathleen, I am glad that you were able to figure out such an attractive solution to your privacy issues. The future fireplace will also be a great addition to your own private Eden.
Posted by: Jennifer | June 03, 2011 at 07:01 PM
It's too bad you can't have a tall fence, but in the end, the Arborvitae hedge will make a really lovely green backdrop for your patio. You'll have a lush, living privacy wall. It will feel a lot cozier when yo sit outside.
Posted by: Northern Shade | June 04, 2011 at 02:12 PM