LIVING FENCES

Our "Post Katrina World" has raised many new challenges. One that we often hear is, "What can I plant to block the view of my neighbors?" Some may not have made improvements to unsightly homes or have raised their houses allowing them direct view into our home or yard. The loss of many trees has cost us our privacy as have houses being rebuilt closer to the property lines. For these and other reasons, we now need a visual screen taller than our ordinary fences can provide.

First let’s answer some basic questions. What is the sun exposure in this area? Do we want the visual screening to begin at ground level or just above the fence? Are there allergies to be taken into considerations? Some plants have pungent aromatic blossoms that may be troublesome to those with allergies. Rate of growth and spacing is something to consider as you make your selection. Time is usually a factor, as we have the need right now. Since this visual barrier is needed year round, our choices should be both cold hardy and evergreen.

The following are some plants suited for this application. The maximum height will be determined by the species you select.

Anise (many species available) 8’- 20’

Bamboo (clumping forms) 10’- 55’

Bottlebrush 6’- 20’

Burford Holly 10’- 25’

Camellia japonica or sasanqua 8’ - 20’

Cherry Laurel 15’- 20’

Elaeagnus 8’- 15’

Italian Cypress 25’- 40’

Japanese Blueberry 30’- 40’

Japanese Cedar 30’- 50’

Japanese Yew 10’- 20’

Leyland Cypress 40’- 55’

Ligustrum 10’- 20’

Oleander 7’- 20

Red Tips 10’- 20’

Savannah Holly 15’- 25’

Sweet Olive 12’- 25’

Viburnum 6’- 25’

Wax Myrtle 10’- 20’

These are just some suggestions that may be used to provide a "living fence" that will look attractive for many years to come. Banting’s Nursery is always stocked with what you want and the quantity that you need.