Broken’ fences or screens (such as with laser cut-out patterns or trellis) distract the eye without taking away so much light. And they can be decorative too. If a solid trellis isn’t an option, a more subtle/sneaky version is to use stainless steel wire which is tightly strung between posts. Stainless steel wire between posts – won’t upset the neighbours & great for growing climbers over for screening

I don’t dig up dahlias to store them at the end of the summer. And before you dig your dahlias up, it’s important to know the pros and cons. You…My goto choice tends to be smaller varieties of Silver Birch (like utilis). They are one of the few trees you can plant in groups to make an effective screen. Silver Birch trees There are complicated rules about hedges and height, but if your hedge is kept well trimmed and doesn’t affect anyone else, then you probably don’t have to worry. Use planting to distract the eye from your windows…

Transform your garden with these easy DIY tips and creative ideas. From a bare yard to a flower-filled space – all on a budget! The choice between reed, bamboo, and willow screening largely depends on your specific needs, preferences, and the environment in which you plan to use the screening. Each material has its own characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages. Here's a comparison to help you make an informed decision:

If you're looking to enhance the visual appeal of your garden while adding a touch of style, any of the natural screeningoptions (reed, bamboo, or willow) can work well. Choose the one that best compliments your garden's overall aesthetic. You could also look at artificial screeningfor a more tropical style and year round colour.

Some houses, districts, counties or states will have different restrictions regarding fences. For example, in Dungeness, Kent, you are not allowed to fence your land. Yet, just a few miles away, you are able to put up a two metre fence without any problem. It may not be as durable as other materials and might require more frequent replacement or maintenance, especially in harsh weather conditions. However, very few people in England are aware of this, as I see 2m garden fences going up everywhere without planning permission. There are also historic fences and walls of 10ft or more, which have been there for centuries. The cost of different screening materials can vary. Reed screens are often more affordable, while bamboo and willow screens might be a bit pricier.

If you're primarily concerned with creating a windbreak or providing shade, bamboo and willow screens with their denser construction can help. These materials can reduce the impact of strong winds and offer partial shade.

In some areas, you may also have to get planning permission for a hedge in a front garden, but in most places, hedges are allowed as long as they don’t cause a nuisance.

Fences for privacy in front gardens

For a more durable and long-lasting solution, bamboo and willow screens tend to be sturdier and better equipped to withstand various weather conditions compared to reed screens. As you can see this doesn’t screen everything but the additional height does help, especially once some climbing plants have grown. If you're seeking a temporary solution for an event or a season, reed or bamboo screens might be more suitable due to their lighter weight and easier installation. Reed screening is often made from thin reed stems that are woven together. It provides a natural and rustic look. Fence disputes over ownership– if you’re not entirely sure who owns the fence you want to screen, this article I was sent may help you work out who owns it!