Homes Extra: Garden Cover-Ups

If your garden fences or walls are looking a bit shabby it might be time to find a cover up solution. Read on for Sara Whatley’s transformation ideas 

Have you got a rickety old fence that needs some attention? An eyesore of a wall that is crying out for some love? Spending time in your garden this season can suddenly open your eyes to something that never bothered you before, and leave you champing at the bit to do something about it. 

Never fear, there are some smart and fun ways to dress up fences and walls, with options for long-term projects and quick fixes too. 

PAINTING 

Painting a fence or wall is the easiest, quickest and probably the least expensive transformation you can make. You can opt to make a statement or blend it into the garden depending on the colours you choose.

Neutral browns and greens blend in and provide a natural looking backdrop for planting. Darker grey or even black will make the fence or wall ‘disappear’ and help the plant colours pop. If you are feeling bold and want to make a statement choose a bright colour or even paint a mural. 

COVERING 

Covering up with privacy screens is another quick fix to instantly change the look of your fence or wall. From simple bamboo to intricately fashioned metal designs, garden screens come in a huge variety of shapes, sizes and designs to suit your needs. 

PLANTING 

There are so many options when it comes to planting to cover an ugly fence or wall. If you have the time to let them grow, think about planting trees or tall hedges. Another long-term but very elegant solution is to train an espaliered tree along a wall or fence, and if you make it a fruit tree you get an added bonus as well.

Climbing plants are another great cover up and depending on the plant can be grown quite quickly. Try clematis, honeysuckle and jasmine. If you have a sturdy wall or can fix 

a pergola in front of the fence, give wisteria a go. 

Planting a beautiful border in front of a wall or fence will draw the eye. Hanging planters give you the opportunity for cascading plants, which are also perfect for a small garden. 

DECORATING 

Adding decorative ornaments can make a surprising difference to the appearance of an unsightly fence or wall. Create a festival vibe with festoon lighting. Hanging a mirror creates some splendid perspectives of the garden, and can make a space appear larger, or an old window hung along a wall or fence is a fun way to bring interest and a sense of discovery to your garden. 

Garden centres are a treasure trove of wonders when it comes to decorative garden ornaments. Find giant butterflies, flowers and dragonflies to adorn your backdrop, or make your own if you are feeling crafty.