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Covering Ugly Fence & Shed

IHateWeedingIHateWeeding Posts: 49
in Problem solving
We want to cover-up a fence and the neighbours outbuilding.

The problem is the fence runs down own our very narrow driveway.

We park up by the fence and the verge in front of it is 80 cm wide and 10 meters long. 

There is enough space for the car but (if we went for a hedge) we would need to keep the hedge back so that it doesn't protrude beyond the verge (ideally it would be a little less wide than this).

The fence is North East facing and we are looking for a solution that lasts all year round.

Any ideas?

   

Posts

  • FairygirlFairygirl Posts: 55,117
    Hornbeam or Beech would grow happily there. Both can be kept tight, and if kept under about 9 or 10 feet, they retain their foliage in winter.
    Or - climbers - plenty to choose from, although evergreens aren't so easy in that aspect, and it will depend where you live. Some of the evergreen clems for example, need a sheltered site. Climbers would also need supports on the fence.
    Ivy would be fine, and can be kept as a hedge, but gets quite rampant after a few years, so can be more work than a hedge.
    It's a place where beautiful isn't enough of a word....



    I live in west central Scotland - not where that photo is...
  • CeresCeres Posts: 2,698
    Ivy. There are some fabulous different leaf colours and forms and birds love to nest in it.
  • BenCottoBenCotto Posts: 4,718
    I’d be hesitant about recommending ivy. It keeps its head down for a couple of seasons then, the moment your back is turned, it is making a bid for world domination and fighting your neighbour’s roof.

    If you’re willing to take on the pruning responsibility, hornbeam and beech are good suggestions. Otherwise I might be inclined to stain the fence charcoal grey and plant in front of it banks of daffodils to be followed with tall cosmos. That will give you attractive flowers for only five months in the year but it will be cheap and if you don’t like it go to plan B next year.
    Rutland, England
  • K67K67 Posts: 2,506
    edited October 2020
    I certainly wouldn't describe the shed as ugly and although the fence is a horrible colour it's neat and tidy. Paint it dark grey or black and paint yourvgates as well and it will be far less noticeable  and then add  3 lollipop shaped trees. 

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