Ideas for Covering a Fence

Shrubs or Hedges

• You have many varieties of bushes that you can plant along your fence to screen it from view. Select from Leyland cypress (zones 6 to 10), Chinese privet (zones 6 to 9) and Amur privet (zones 4 to 7). These are just a few examples of fast-growing shrubs that grow tall and dense. Ask your local garden center for recommendations of shrubs that grow well in your area. To keep costs down, purchase immature shrubs. Give them a year or two, and your ugly fence will be out of sight.

Vines

• Vines are another plant that can grow to cover your fence. Though not as dense as shrubs, vines have a cost advantage as they are less expensive. If you have a little time and patience, you may even grow them from seeds or cuttings that friends and neighbors share with you for free. Some vines to choose from include the hops vine (zones 2 to 9), English ivy (zones 4 to 9), hyacinth bean vine (zones 1 to 11) and trumpet vine (zones 4 to 10).

Bamboo or Reed Fencing

• Both bamboo and reed fencing are sold in large rolls. This fencing is available in various sizes and styles, such as thicker bamboo poles or canes and thinner bamboo reeds and sticks. Purchase fencing that is slightly taller than your existing fence to ensure that the old fence is completely hidden. To cover your fence, roll the fencing out flat, cut it to the correct length and attach it to your existing fence with lashes, binders or ties.

Commercial Privacy Screening

• Some manufacturers and fencing companies sell screening that is designed specifically to attach to and cover a fence. These products are often marketed to owners of chain-link fence, but some of these screen products can be used with any type of fence. Slats are also available for chain-link fences. These are long strips of a flexible material that you weave into the openings of your chain-link fence to partially cover it and add privacy.