There are benefits to living in the suburbs, but sometimes privacy issues and noise from traffic or neighboring homes can be a nuisance. Some creative landscaping can often bring some peace and quiet.
QUESTION: “I am looking for ideas for a living fence to partially block the patio and noise from our next door neighbors as well as giving us a little more privacy. We are on a corner lot in the Northwestern Chicago suburbs.
”We had planted red twig dogwoods years ago which grew quite nicely for a while but have now been infiltrated by unknown tree-like sprouts which have now grown to resemble the red twigs. We would like to cut out the foreign shrub and start a new. They are getting quite woody and hard to maintain.
”The area gets much sun and is fairly well drained. It does get a bit of foot traffic. There are currently four shrubs planted in twos, divided by a pathway.
”I liked your Lilac idea (in a previous column). Do you have any more? Possibly mixing in something evergreenish?” – Diana
ANSWER: You might consider the Schip Laurel. It is a broadleaf evergreen that is dense enough for privacy. I’ve seen it described as “possibly the world’s most useful garden plant” and that’s hard to refute. Schip Laurel grows rapidly to about ten feet high with a wide spread.
Also, you might consider lattice-type panels placed sporadically along the privacy line. Once installed, incorporate the panels into the landscape as you would any taller growing plant as a backdrop. Plant a vine such as English ivy or clematis (deciduous) to weave in and out of the spaces. Panels are a great way to add instant privacy. Even before you have vines on them, they will still provide a wonderful amount of privacy on their own. Holiday lights also look great on them, all year ‘round. I hope this gives you a few ideas to build on.
QUESTION: “I live in Middle Tenneessee. The front of my house faces west and I would like to plant two decorative-type trees that would only grow to about 40 feet and can be planted relatively close to house for future shade, possibly a flowering type tree. I had two maple trees but I didn't like dealing with the surface roots, sticks and leaves. What do you suggest I plant?” – Charles
ANSWER: A few shorter growing trees that you may consider are the flowering cherry trees, cistena plum, kousa dogwood, magnolia butterflies, red bud and sweetbay magnolia. These trees grow in the 20 to 30 foot range (at least) and will flower.
It is important to bear in mind that a 30 to 40 foot tall tree should be planted at least 30-35 feet away from the foundation of your house. The root system from trees planted too close to a house can cause serious damage to the home’s foundation in future years.
The next question came from a reader who sent me a diagram of his patio
QUESTION: “I have an area I dug up that surrounds my patio. It is only about 3 feet wide, but long. I have tried everything from hostas, peonies, daisies and countless annuals, but to no avail. They all die. I need a colorful plant that can withstand damp soil. Do you have suggestions?” – Bobbie Ritchie
ANSWER: Areas that are in shade with damp soil can sometimes be difficult to get plants to establish. Most plants need at least a short period where the soil is less than damp (more on the moist only side) otherwise they die from root rot.
Even hostas and ferns, which normally grow in damper spaces, will find it difficult to establish in a damp/wet area. If there is a time period where the ground is drier, you might try planting at that time. Peonies and daisies generally require more sunlight and drier soil.
Your plant selection will depend more on whether the area is shaded or in full sun as the varieties will be different. Shrub dogwoods enjoy damp soil and lightly shaded spaces, but can often grow in a more sunny area.
The Plant Man is here to help. Send your questions about trees, shrubs and landscaping to steve@landsteward.org and for resources and additional information, including archived columns, visit www.landsteward.org
