Make Your Yard More Private

Berms are basically miniature hills in the landscape. They add height to plantings, which can be an effective way to create privacy. A berm is also good for highlighting smaller plants, as it can bring them to eye level.

Because of their sloping sides, berms drain better than flat beds, so they're well-suited for rock garden plants and any species that prefer dry soil.

Plant trees and shrubs on berms to form a useful physical and sound curtain between the street and yard. Include rocks and stones to give the mound stability.

Here's a hint: If you make a berm, a ratio of one foot of height to every four feet of width is usually suitable to keep mulch from running down the slope.

While a pergola probably won't block out your entire yard, it's a great solution for adding privacy to a smaller space.

A vine-covered pergola creates a private, shady nook underneath -- perfect for a secluded bench or patio. A pergola also adds year-round structure to the landscape.

You can create different levels of privacy with pergolas, too. A simple vine-covered pergola provides a little privacy; running lattice panels between the pergola columns will add even more. Hanging sheets of outdoor-friendly fabric to act as curtains will give you even more seclusion.

Click here for more on pergola ideas