grow your own color

BEST PLANTS TO GROW ALONG A FENCE LINE

If you’re looking to improve the appearance of your fence and transform it into a more aesthetically pleasing feature, there are several factors to consider before choosing the right plants. First, assess the type of fence you have, its location, and its intended function—whether it’s for privacy, decoration, or simply to mark boundaries. Additionally, think about the available space and the growing conditions in your area, such as sunlight, soil type, and water availability. Once you’ve got these details, you’ll be in a better position to choose the perfect plants that will enhance the look of your fence line while fulfilling your specific needs.

In this article, we’ll share some creative and practical ideas to help you transform your fence line into a beautiful and functional feature. Whether you’re looking to add privacy, enhance curb appeal, or create a cozy garden space, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive in and get started!

The Fence And Its Location

The space next to a fence is often overlooked in gardens, but it’s a prime opportunity to enhance your outdoor space. Fences are typically installed to define property boundaries, offer safety, and provide privacy, whether they’re made from wood, aluminum, chain link, or even a charming picket fence. Instead of hiding your fence, consider ways to enhance its appearance, especially if it has appealing features. However, keep in mind that fences require occasional maintenance, like painting, so you’ll want to select plants that allow for easy access for upkeep.

When choosing plants for the fence line, it’s crucial to consider the growing conditions of the area. Different plants have varying needs, such as full sun, partial shade, or shade, as well as differing water requirements. Additionally, whether the fence offers shelter from the wind or is exposed to it can affect plant growth. Here’s a breakdown of how the direction of the fence impacts plant selection:

  • North-facing sites receive less direct sunlight and tend to be cooler. They warm up later in the season and experience fewer temperature extremes, making them suitable for plants that thrive in shaded or cooler environments.
  • South-facing sites get more sunlight, remain warmer, and warm up earlier in the season. These areas may require plants that can tolerate more heat and dryness.
  • East-facing sites receive more sunlight in the morning, making them ideal for plants that thrive in morning sun and prefer less intense afternoon heat.
  • West-facing sites enjoy more sunlight in the afternoon, which can lead to hotter conditions later in the day, so choose plants that can handle the heat and have some tolerance for drought.

Understanding these factors will help you select the best plants that will thrive along your fence while complementing your garden’s needs.

Type Of Garden

When deciding what to plant along your fence line, it’s important to consider the overall design and feel of your garden. For a cohesive look, you might want to choose plants that blend seamlessly with the rest of your garden and any existing screening elements you have. If you already have hedges or other plants that provide privacy, you can complement those by selecting similar species for the fence line, maintaining harmony across the space.

Another consideration is the primary purpose of your fence garden. If your main goal is to create a screen or add privacy, you can opt for tall, dense shrubs or climbing plants like ivy, jasmine, or climbing roses. However, if you’re more interested in making productive use of the space, planting vegetables can be a great option. You can position shorter plants, such as leafy greens, near the front of the fence and use the back area for taller crops like beans or vine tomatoes that can climb a trellis or the fence itself. This approach not only adds functionality to the space but also provides a natural, living screen.

Ultimately, fenceline landscaping is all about tailoring the design to what works best for your family and the conditions in your garden. Whether you’re creating a beautiful border, adding privacy, or growing fresh produce, the possibilities are endless, and the choice should reflect your needs and style.

Hedge Plants, Vines, And Creepers

If creating a natural screen along your fence line is a priority, there are several plant options that can grow tall without spreading too widely, providing privacy and softening the view. These plants can be relatively low-maintenance, especially if they’re allowed to grow higher than the fence, giving you added privacy.

Some excellent hedge plants for screening include:

  • Buxus (Boxwood): A classic choice, Buxus is dense, hardy, and can be shaped easily.
  • Lilly Pilly: Known for its lush foliage and vibrant, colorful flowers, Lilly Pilly is great for creating a screen that’s both attractive and functional.
  • Murraya (Orange Jasmine): This plant has fragrant white flowers and glossy green leaves, perfect for adding a soft, fragrant touch to your fence line.
  • Photinia: With its red-tipped leaves, Photinia offers both privacy and visual interest year-round.
  • Viburnum: A versatile and hardy shrub, Viburnum provides dense coverage and seasonal flowers.

For a more dynamic option, vines and creepers can also serve as fantastic screening plants. They can easily climb up your fence and fill in gaps, providing lush coverage. When selecting vines, consider the local climate and conditions. A visit to local gardens can give you insights into what grows well in your area. Nurseries can also offer advice on suitable plants for your soil type and growing environment.

Just be cautious not to plant anything that could become invasive and difficult to manage, such as trumpet vine, which can spread uncontrollably and create issues for both your garden and your neighbors.

For a dramatic, eye-catching effect, consider:

  • Climbing roses: These can grow 15 to 30 feet high, producing abundant, fragrant blooms that add a burst of color and charm to your fence.
  • Boston Ivy: This plant features stunning three-pronged leaves that change color with the seasons, along with purple fruits. It’s hardy and doesn’t mind a variety of growing conditions.
  • Bougainvillea: Known for its vibrant, colorful blooms in shades of orange, yellow, red, and purple, Bougainvillea thrives in full sun and adds a tropical feel to your garden. Plus, it’s drought-resistant, making it a great option for warmer climates.

When selecting plants for your fence line, always consider their growth habits, maintenance requirements, and how they will interact with your space. Whether you’re looking for privacy, beauty, or both, these plants can help transform your fence into a feature that enhances your garden.

The Cottage Garden

Cottage gardens have long been cherished for their romantic charm and eclectic style, offering a warm and inviting atmosphere. This type of garden thrives on an informal and natural arrangement of plants, where a mix of flowering perennials and fragrant herbs come together to create a cozy, colorful space. Hollyhocks, Delphiniums, Phlox, Daisies, and similar flowers are staples in cottage gardens, while aromatic herbs like lavender, rosemary, and thyme add both beauty and fragrance.

When planting along a fence line, local knowledge can be a huge advantage. Understanding your area’s climate and growing conditions can help you choose plants that thrive, ensuring vibrant, year-round color. If you have the space, create a gentle, curving border about two feet away from the fence (or wider if preferred). This will allow enough room for a mix of annuals and perennials that bloom in various seasons. For instance, spring flowers and bulbs provide an early burst of color after winter’s chill, while shrubs can offer structure and privacy. These types of plantings can serve both decorative and functional purposes as garden privacy ideas along the fence.

Fenceline landscaping doesn’t need to be overly complicated. The same basic principles of gardening apply: consider the growing conditions, the sun exposure, and the purpose of the space. Be mindful that solid materials like brick or stone can absorb and radiate heat, which may not be suitable for certain plants that prefer cooler conditions.

While many gardeners take pride in their meticulously designed spaces, you don’t need to create an elaborate garden to achieve a beautiful, well-maintained look. Keeping things simple and focusing on the essentials—like choosing the right plants for your fence line and considering the functionality of the fence—can go a long way in making your garden a visually pleasing and enjoyable space.

Other Decoration Ideas

If your fence is unsightly and you want a quick solution, consider using a decorative screen instead of a plain trellis. There are many beautiful designs available, from sleek modern styles to intricate traditional patterns, allowing you to not only cover up the fence but also enhance the visual appeal of your garden.

If you love garden ornaments, why not incorporate them into your fence landscaping? A small fountain, garden statue, or other decorative pieces can add charm and continuity to the overall theme of your garden. Be sure to choose ornaments that complement the style of your garden, whether it’s rustic, contemporary, or whimsical.

When attaching items like a bird feeder or hanging baskets to the fence, it’s important to ensure that the fence is sturdy enough to support them. You don’t want the added weight to compromise the stability of the fence, so take the time to reinforce it if needed. This way, you can enjoy your ornaments without worrying about any mishaps.

CONCLUSION

The possibilities for transforming your garden are endless, limited only by your imagination. Whether you prefer the timeless elegance of a shaped hedge or the vibrant, carefree charm of a cottage garden, you have a wealth of options to explore. You can create privacy by selecting plants specifically for screening, or get creative by incorporating plants that also serve as a food source, such as herbs, vegetables, or fruit-bearing plants. The choice is entirely up to you! Whatever direction you take, make sure it reflects your personal style and the needs of your space. With the right plants and a little planning, your garden can become a beautiful, functional extension of your home.

HOW TO KEEP FLIES AWAY FROM YOUR PATIO

As the weather warms up, your patio becomes the perfect spot for outdoor gatherings and grilling with family and friends. However, there’s one pesky problem that can ruin the fun—flies. They buzz around your face and land on your food, constantly interrupting your enjoyment. Don’t let these unwelcome guests spoil your outdoor experience! Here’s how to get rid of flies on the patio and keep your space pest-free.

Why Are There So Many Flies Outside My House?

Flies are most active from spring through fall, with their peak season during the summer months. Female flies can lay over 100 eggs after mating, and if the weather is warm enough, those eggs hatch into larvae in less than 8 hours. Adult flies can live for up to 3 months, so if you’re dealing with a fly problem, it’s important to address the source of the issue.

To effectively get rid of flies, start by identifying and removing the breeding grounds that are attracting them. Flies are particularly drawn to garbage and organic waste, where they lay their eggs. When they land on these areas, they can spread contamination to other surfaces. By eliminating the sources of attraction both indoors and outdoors, you’ll be taking the first step toward a fly-free home and patio.

Why Is It Important To Get Rid Of Flies?

Flies are not only annoying, but they’re also carriers of harmful bacteria and diseases. These restless insects move from one place to another, landing on surfaces like walls, your skin, pet waste, and trash, increasing the risk of spreading infection. Flies are known to transmit serious illnesses such as typhoid and paratyphoid fevers, diarrhea, dysentery, cholera, and conjunctivitis. They can also carry dangerous pathogens like salmonella, anthrax, and tuberculosis, and even the eggs of parasitic worms.

If you’re ready to tackle your fly problem, it’s time to explore how to effectively get rid of flies and keep your home safe and clean.

How To Get Rid Of Flies

Flies are not only annoying, but they’re also carriers of harmful bacteria and diseases. These restless insects move from one place to another, landing on surfaces like walls, your skin, pet waste, and trash, increasing the risk of spreading infection. Flies are known to transmit serious illnesses such as typhoid and paratyphoid fevers, diarrhea, dysentery, cholera, and conjunctivitis. They can also carry dangerous pathogens like salmonella, anthrax, and tuberculosis, and even the eggs of parasitic worms.

If you’re ready to tackle your fly problem, it’s time to explore how to effectively get rid of flies and keep your home safe and clean.

HOW DO YOU GET RID OF FLIES OUTSIDE?

You can easily get rid of flies outside with these six simple steps:

  • Use an Oscillating Fan: Set up a fan on an extension cord on your patio. Flies struggle to fly in strong wind, so the breeze will keep them away from your space.
  • Make Natural Fly Traps: Dissolve 1/4 cup of sugar in 1 cup of water in a jar for each trap. Roll a piece of paper into a cone and tape it inside the jar, ensuring the narrow end is just above the liquid. The funnel will attract flies into the jar, where they’ll get trapped.
  • Light Citronella Candles: Citronella, an oil extracted from lemongrass, is a natural fly and mosquito repellent. Light several citronella candles around your patio to keep flies at bay with the strong, aromatic scent.
  • Swat the Flies: If you want an immediate solution, grab a fly swatter. For extra efficiency, use an electric fly swatter that zaps the flies with a loud zap, taking care of your pesky problem fast.
  • Hang Vodka Bags: Flies are repelled by the smell of vodka. Fill small plastic bags halfway with cheap vodka, zip them almost closed, and hang them around your yard with twine and clothespins. The odor will drive the flies away.
  • DIY Fly Strips: Create your own fly strips by cutting cloth into 12-inch long strips and moistening them with a few drops of essential oils like clove, lavender, citronella, or eucalyptus. Hang the strips around your patio to naturally repel flies with their strong scents.

By using these methods, you can keep flies away and enjoy your outdoor space in peace!

What Smells Do Flies Hate?

For some reason, flies hate the smell of certain products, which makes them ideal for use in homemade fly repellents.

Here are several natural remedies to get rid of flies, along with their pros and cons:

  1. Vodka and Essential Oils
  • How to use: Mix 1 cup of vodka, 2 teaspoons of aloe vera juice, 1 teaspoon of lemon eucalyptus oil, and ½ teaspoon of an essential oil blend in a spray bottle. Spray the mixture on infested areas.
  • Pros: No chemicals, easy to use, effective.
  • Cons: May cause skin irritation for those with sensitive skin.

2. Lemongrass Oil

  • How to use: Combine 20-25 drops of lemongrass oil with ½ cup of hot water in a spray bottle. Spray on doorways, windows, and other areas to repel flies.
  • Pros: Natural, fresh-smelling, non-toxic.
  • Cons: Essential oils can be expensive.

3. Cloves and Citrus

  • How to use: Insert 6-12 cloves into halved lemons or apples and use as a centerpiece during meals. Alternatively, use clove oil.
  • Pros: Chemical-free, doubles as an attractive decoration.
  • Cons: Effective mainly against houseflies.

4. Vinegar and Witch Hazel

  • How to use: Mix ¼ cup apple cider vinegar, ¼ cup witch hazel, and 30-60 drops of eucalyptus oil in a spray bottle. Shake well and spray on fly-prone areas.
  • Pros: Natural, works well as a repellent, can be used as body lotion.
  • Cons: Only effective against houseflies, may irritate eyes.

5. Fly-Repelling Herbs

  • How to use: Grow basil, elder, lavender, tansy, wormwood, rue, and mint in pots near doorways to repel flies.
  • Pros: Effective, purifies the air, adds a pleasant aroma.
  • Cons: Some herbs may not thrive depending on environmental conditions.

6. Citronella

  • How to use: Light citronella candles or use camphor to repel flies with their smoke.
  • Pros: No chemicals, works on all types of flies.
  • Cons: Smoke can aggravate respiratory conditions.

7. Malt Vinegar

  • How to use: Heat malt vinegar in a pot until it starts to boil, then place it in fly-infested areas. The scent will repel flies.
  • Pros: Natural, effective.
  • Cons: May be difficult to control the scent in large areas.

Each of these methods provides a natural and chemical-free way to get rid of flies, though some may be more suited for specific environments or types of flies.

HOW TO KEEP FLIES AWAY

To not only get rid of flies but also prevent them from re-entering your home, try these smart strategies:

  1. Keep Things Clean: Flies are attracted to open trash cans, uncovered compost bins, and dog waste. Clean up food scraps immediately after outdoor gatherings, secure trash cans with tight lids, and dispose of dog droppings promptly.
  2. Embrace Spiders: Unless a spider’s web is in your way, leave them be. Spiders are natural predators of flies and will gladly help keep their numbers in check by snaring any flies they can catch.
  3. Plant Fly-Repelling Herbs: Use plants like basil, lavender, and mint both inside and around your home to naturally repel flies. These herbs can also add a lovely aroma to your patio and barbecue areas.
  4. Watch for Water: Flies need water to survive and are attracted to stagnant puddles, birdbaths, and areas with moisture from dripping sprinklers. Eliminate these water sources to reduce fly attraction.
  5. Clean Fruit Bird Feeders: Fruit bird feeders are often a magnet for flies. Once your feathered friends are done eating, remove any leftover rinds or scraps to prevent flies from gathering around the feeders.
  6. Mow Your Lawn Regularly: Flies like to lay eggs in long grass, which provides moisture and shelter. Mowing your lawn regularly, especially in the summer, will help eliminate potential breeding grounds for flies.

By maintaining a clean environment and using natural deterrents, you can keep flies from making a return and ensure your outdoor spaces remain fly-free.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, getting rid of flies on your patio and preventing their return involves a combination of cleanliness, natural repellents, and smart strategies. By keeping your outdoor spaces tidy, eliminating food and water sources, and using natural fly-repelling herbs and remedies, you can discourage these pests from invading your home and yard. Whether through the power of citronella, the help of spiders, or regular lawn care, you can create an environment that flies will want to avoid. With these simple and effective techniques, you’ll be able to enjoy your outdoor space without the nuisance of flies.