Question
My husband and I recently purchase our first home and now we are in desperate need of some backyard privacy. The picture was taken from my patio looking into my neighbors yard and house. The two bushes in the picture are rose of sharon and I would like to at least keep the largest one (on the left). I thought about planting some tall ornamental grass along with a mixture of other things or even just a row of rose of sharon but really I am at a loss. I don't know where to begin or what to put in the ground. I love to garden and just want it to look appealing to the eye.  I am really open to any suggestions.  The only thing I don't want to do is an evergreen hedge.  I would be so grateful for some suggestions.
Here is the link to the picture of my backyard.

http://i334.photobucket.com/albums/m401/kathyt812/backyard001.jpg

Thanks again.

Answer
Hi Kathy,

A quick and relatively inexpensive way to gain privacy is to add 3-5 (keeping them at an odd number) lattice panels. Install them using actual fence posts and place them so they are staggered and not touching or straight across.

In between each panel plant a Rose of Sharon or possibly a Crepe Myrtle. It doesn't really matter as long as it grows tall and suits your soil and climate.

On the lattice grow clematis, ivy or Lady Banksia vines. Once again, choose plants that will suit your soil and climate needs. The vine may take at least two seasons to take off, but, in the meantime your lattice provides the privacy you need.

Not only will it provide privacy, but, it will provide a warm and welcoming backdrop to your backyard.

Good luck and let me know if this was helpful!

Namaste,
Kathy