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Creating a More Private Garden

This dense-weave fence provides plenty of privacy and blends well with any garden setting.

There's nothing like a fence to create a private, outdoor room. If you don't want to invest in a wood fence, consider a semi-permanent fence made of bamboo, willow or reeds. Pre-made lattice panels can also be used.
Instead of a solid hedge of yews or cedars, consider a staggered planting of trees to filter the view without blocking it completely. You'll create a feeling of more space by borrowing part of the view beyond your yard. Evergreens are a good choice for hedges, but you can also use deciduous trees or shrubs, such as lilacs, which grow quickly and have fragrant springtime flowers.
Use trellises to create seasonal screens. Cover them with fast-growing flowering vines. Annuals, such as morning glories or cardinal climbers, are a great choice because they grow quickly. Use trellis netting for support over large areas. Simply attach it to sturdy posts.
Ornamental grasses—especially the taller varieties—can be used to create screens. Many will thrive in large containers.
Create a "hedge" of tall annuals; a dense planting of corn or sunflowers will do the trick.
A series of overflowing hanging baskets also adds privacy and beauty to any front porch.