How to build a living wall for your garden
In short: A privacy screen doesn't have to be a wooden fence. By using living plants like yews, lilacs, and ornamental grasses, you can create a natural, growing barrier. However, successful installation requires specific soil preparation and careful root management to ensure your new botanical boundary thrives.
Creating a natural privacy screen involves more than simply digging holes. According to landscape contractor Roger Cook, the process begins by strategically placing potted plants—such as yews, lilacs, or ornamental grasses—along the fence line. It is essential to leave sufficient space between each specimen to allow for their future growth patterns.
Preparation of the planting site is critical for long-term success. Once a circle is cut into the lawn, the resulting holes should be two to three times wider than the plant's original container. To prevent root compaction, a three-tine cultivator should be used to loosen any matted root balls before the plant is placed in the ground. When setting the plant, the top of the root ball should sit slightly above the ground level; if it sits too low, additional soil must be added.
Nutrient management and moisture are the final pillars of a healthy screen. The soil should be amended by mixing excavated dirt with a combination of loam and compost, supplemented by a starter fertilizer to promote root development. When backfilling, it is vital to avoid placing soil directly on top of the root ball. Once planted, use a shovel handle to poke holes around the base for better water penetration, then water the plants thoroughly. To maintain this new boundary, continue watering once a week until the plants are fully established, and apply a layer of bark mulch between 2 to 3 inches deep around each plant.
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- Summary by Intellect · source: How to Plant a Privacy Screen | Ask This Old House
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