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Gardening experts have shared some simple ways to create privacy in gardens this spring and summer to avoid onlookers.
With the weather getting warmer and the days getting longer, many people will be preparing their gardens for social events and barbecues.
However, a family barbecue can quickly become uncomfortable when your neighbours start being nosy.
With this in mind, garden experts from Garden Buildings Direct have shared five ways to add privacy to your garden.
A spokesperson for Garden Buildings Direct said: “We know lack of privacy is a problem many people face in their gardens.
“With the weather starting to warm up and families planning to spend more time outside in the spring and summer months, now is the perfect time to find your solution.
“You could look at extending your fence height, although you will need planning permission for any fences higher than two metres.
“Other options include planting privacy hedges or evergreen trees and adding perennial borders around seating areas or patios.”
1. Privacy hedges
The experts said shrubs and small trees are the “perfect option” for creating privacy hedging.
Instead of placing hedging along the fence line, incorporate hedges along a patio or seating area section of the garden.
This can help block your neighbours’ views of your garden’s social space.
2. Fence height
Increasing your hedge height is one of the “most effective ways” to create privacy in the garden.
However, it’s worth noting that the maximum height for a fence without needing to take out any sort of planning permission is two metres. Any taller than this and you will need to apply for the necessary permissions.
3. Add a canopy
Canopies like pergolas can help to block your neighbours’ view from above. A pergola with lots of gaps in the wood can be used to train plants which will only add extra privacy.
4. Privacy trees
The experts said: “If you are thinking of adding large trees into your garden to help with privacy, consider what sort of tree will work best for you.
“If you only want privacy during the summer months, deciduous trees work best.
“Evergreens will help create a private garden space all year round but will cast deeper shade on your garden and may block out much of the sun during the warmer months.”
5. Perennial borders
To obscure views without completely blocking off sections of your garden, you could try a perennial border which has some taller plants at the back and smaller ones at the front.
