Over this past spring we have designed a lot of landscapes to block a view of roads, neighbors or vacant lots; that I thought I would share some ways to provide blocking. Pictured are from my own yard as examples to block a neighbors patio which lines up directly with mine as well as my kitchen window lining up with another neighbors master bathroom window. I like my neighbors but a little separation is nice.
The Standard Privacy Line- A privacy hedge line is where you plant a row of plants to block out and create a living wall. You space them about 75 to 90 percent of their 10 year average mature width so they grow in to form a wall. It can be evergreen for a year round block or deciduous to provide a block throughout the growing season. Traditionally people will use the same plant for the entire line like Arborvitae. However with the right pattern and contrast, a line with different seasonal interests look great and provide more variety. This is done by working in odd number, like if you want a year round block from a neighbor's large, clear, bathroom window; you can plant 3 Emerald Arborvitae to block it out and then flank them with Rose of Sharon on each side for summer flowers to add interest to the line..
Espaliered Shrubs or Trees -This where you take a species of tree or shrub that naturally is not a column and it is trained and trimmed to provide screening or living walls. With the right variety of plant trimming would be 3 times a year but it would give you privacy with a different look than a traditional hedge.
A well placed tree-Evergreen, Shade or Ornamental Trees work great for privacy in a single spot. Simply plant that tree in front of the offending view point and watch it grow. Select varieties that don't over grow the space. The picture on the left shows the a tree and what I am wanting block out (a bathroom window), for when you look my kitchen window you don't see the window!
Trellised Vines or Roses- For narrow areas, patios, or a little style; you can plant a nicely designed trellis where a block is needed. Trellises come in a variety of styles to match your taste and cedar trellises can be painted to suite your fancy. If your handy, you can even design and build your own trellis. Add a plant and you have year round privacy, for a narrow spot.
Just remember before you get set on a particular plant learn what varieties or species will grow in the spot based on exposure and size available so that way your privacy fence will grow well and not need to be babied.
the dry spots use a sprinkler on a hose and soak it for about an hour or more depending on how dry it is. Another way to check on coverage is to use a tuna can or saucer, place one in the good section and another in the troubled spot. Measure with a ruler the difference and begin adjusting.
Timmy is our newest nursery cat, who enjoys being held by customers and is super friendly. He came to us in June looking for a home and job. So he is learning how to mouse from Cleo and has mastered greeting customers. He loves to be held as you shop. We are working with on playing to rough but all in all he is a pretty friendly cat. Be sure to say hello to Timmy when you come to visit. 
