Tips on selecting shrubs, trees and walks for privacy and to conceal objectionable views, comfort and for safety.

Privacy and Concealment
In North America, the backyard is the homeowner's private domain. We grow hedges, plant trees and build fences so that the neighbors can't see the comings and goings of our daily lives.

When landscaping, you may decide that you are tired of looking at your neighbors house, etc. and decide to put in shrubs and trees to conceal them. Before you select any plant, go through the checklist in Choosing landscape flowers, shrubs and trees - Part 1. Pay special attention to how tall and wide the shrub or tree grows and whether it retains its leaves year round. Also, try to imagine what the shrub or tree will look like in a couple of years and don't buy anything that requires trimming.

People usually want instant privacy so they are duped into buying fast growing shrubs or trees. This could be a mistake you will live to regret. In Washington DC, many builders and homeowners plant Leyland Cypress trees very close together because they are fast growers and make good screens. However, when they reach 35 feet they resemble an impenetrable green wall and look really ugly. We actually have started to cut them down.

A better choice for a screen is a holly. Their are so many different varieties of holly that you're bound to find one to your liking. Their leaves, texture and fruit provide interest as well as the desired screening of any objectionable view throughout the year. Plus, the spines on their leaves also discourage unwanted and unauthorized entrance on your property.

Hollies grow slowly though so you may have to wait several years to see any results. It's well worth it though. If you choose a holly that has berries (not all do) ask if it needs a pollinator aka male tree. Also some hollies do lose their leaves so make sure the one you get doesn't

Comfort
Landscaping can increase our comfort by providing protection from the elements. What landscape architects refer to as 'high- headed' trees give more shade than columnar trees or lower shrubs.

Once again, inquire about how tall and wide the tree or shrub grows. Also, do not plant trees too close to the house where they can cause a variety of problems later on---roots grow into foundations, overhanging limbs and leaves fall on the roof and into rain gutters, respectively. See our article Five Most Common Landscaping Mistakes and How to Fix Them.

Homeowners can also create their own "micro-climate." Hedges and coniferous trees, placed to buffer prevailing winds, increase your comfort in winter and reduce heating bills as well. Evergreens are especially useful near buildings to buffer winter winds. Deciduous trees will provide shade in summer if planted to the south and west of a house, deck or patio. They will also allow the warmth of the sun to enter during the winter months. Hedges and shrub plantings can also reduce dust, traffic glare, pollutants and noise.

Convenience and Safety
Walks and gateways should be planned to fit in with a logical foot traffic pattern and be wide enough for two people to walk abreast on them where possible.

When we designed our flagstone entrance path, we put these principles into practice. Usually 42 inches or more is the recommended width. Steps should have treads 12 inches wide and risers 6 inches high. Walks and steps should be well lit.

Driveways should be wide enough to accommodate vehicles as well as people entering and leaving them. Avoid overhanging trees and shrubs along driveways or walks which will "drip" rain or snow on passers-by.

Armed with the above information and photos of the front, side, and back of your house and areas you want to improve, visit your garden center and actually look at the plants. You will find that the plant catalog photos are rather flattering and not like the real thing.