Outdoor Privacy

Drought tolerant privacy plants still need water for their first year or two. Plan establishment water, heat and spacing so the screen holds in dry spells.

Flowering privacy plants need leaves that screen after the petals drop. Plan bloom and cover on two calendars, prune old and new wood right and size by width.

Climbing plants for privacy cover fast only when the vine can grip its support. Match twiners, tendrils and clingers to wire, mesh or trellis, with sizes.

Ornamental grasses for privacy screen a view from midsummer to late winter. Learn to read leaf height vs plume height, spacing and the spring cutback gap.

Tall narrow plants for privacy that fit tight beds: check usable width, mature spread and pruning needs for each cultivar before you buy and plant a row.

Porch privacy ideas that keep room for your chairs: compare curtains, slim panels and potted plants by the floor they take when open, closed or put away.

Deck railing privacy ideas that start from your seat: fix views through the balusters or over the top rail without weakening the guard that keeps you safe.

Plan a pergola with privacy wall: 12 ideas, how to mark where the wall starts and stops, and what to ask before buying a side wall kit for your frame.

Pool privacy ideas that block the neighbor view, keep swimmers in sight and plan for leaf drop, with 14 ideas and three ways to screen a small pool area.

Hot tub privacy ideas that leave room for the cover to open, the steps and the equipment panel, with 16 ways to screen the view you can still see.