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.

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. 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. For example, you may be allowed to put a pergola, gazebo or arch near the fence. You are usually allowed to make these higher. However, it’s really important that anything you add to your garden is designed in place, not randomly added, otherwise you’ll never get a garden that looks really good.Also, upright structures add interest so it gives you something in the garden to look at and helps distract you from the neighbours! Upright structures add height and interest and can grow climbing plants for additional screening

Even if you have restrictions on the height of your fence, you may be able to increase the height in other ways. 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! 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. Fences add to the style of your garden – think recycled fences, painted fences or horizontal slats.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. If you divide your garden to create a private area away from the boundary, you can usually have a higher fence or screen there.

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… The cost of different screening materials can vary. Reed screens are often more affordable, while bamboo and willow screens might be a bit pricier. Slat screening looks more modern and lattice trellis traditional. Add trellis on top of your existing fence for additional screening If you’re worried about tree roots causing damage to your property you can always plant them with a root barrier which is a material that will restrict their growth.

Does the smooth side of the fence have to face outwards?

All the examples shown above place the screening at the end of the garden. Screening elements can be placed closer to the house. Archways and pergolas loaded with climbing plants will make excellent screens… As you can see this doesn’t screen everything but the additional height does help, especially once some climbing plants have grown. Easy-care evergreen pots to add interest and structure to your garden all year round. 10+ plant choices for evergreen trees, shrubs and grasses for pots. 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… A simple way is to add a section of trellis on top of your existing fence or wall as shown in the photo above.

The type of screening you need depends on your specific goals, preferences, and the intended use. Here are some common scenarios and the types that might be suitable: 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 The appearance of willow screening can vary, and some may prefer its more textured and uneven look.Reed screening is often made from thin reed stems that are woven together. It provides a natural and rustic look. Transform your garden with these easy DIY tips and creative ideas. From a bare yard to a flower-filled space – all on a budget! You may find that the position of the screening needs to be in a different place when you’re actually in the garden. If that’s the case, this next tip will help… It may not be as durable as other materials and might require more frequent replacement or maintenance, especially in harsh weather conditions. 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: