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Be it your garden, property, or other landscaping, fencing is required to provide privacy or security to it. However, fencing may be an unfriendly move, and maintaining it by cleaning, staining, and repairing takes a lot of work. But it is not the only option available.
Let us look at some different ideas that can be used instead of a fence and see the pros and cons associated with each one of them so that you can choose better.
Plants (Hedge)
Pros
- This one is amongst the best and most eco-friendly and affordable options available and works well for a soft barrier
- Planting will give you the benefit of choosing your favorite shrubs like oakleaf hydrangea, viburnum, sedum, or ornamentals such as lilacs, quince, and weigela and will enhance the beauty of your yard. These are rooted deep in grounds, and therefore are not likely to get blown away by high winds
- Also, they do not need replacement boards like wooden fences might.
Cons
- The main problem with the living fence is its maintenance and takes a while to grow; thus, it cannot do its job the minute you put it up
- Also, when it comes to its job as a fence gate, these are less efficient and would not be good at keeping out animals or unwanted visitors
- Insects can be harmful to the plants and can affect the beauty of the yard
Dry- Stone Wall (Stone Barricade)
Pros
- Stone walls are beautiful and look natural, adding an aesthetic look to your landscape
- They are sturdy, durable, and stable. They are not destroyed by winds, rain, or insects and are efficient at their job of protecting the yard
- These can be made at a meager cost or even for free if try to DIY leftover construction stones
- Whatever climate it is, stone walls do not need to be maintained or painted; they remain durable for years together
Cons
- Stone walls are difficult to alter. You cannot paint them as they it does not adhere to the surface or can add stones to the existing wall as it will not blend properly
- You cannot relocate or repair such fences as it will require colossal labor, which would instead be expensive, and it would be best to start over a new one
- Finding the right stones which match with the other ones take time; thus, it is a time-consuming process
- Also, if they slide out due to improper positioning, they can hurt someone
Bamboo Screens
Pros
- Bamboo is fast-growing and is renewable. Once cut, it grows out again, and this is an excellent method to slow down deforestation
- It is environment friendly and is an attractive option to go for
- They are long-lasting (more than 20 years) and durable and require low maintenance
- They can be stained into different colors giving your yard the vibe you want
- They are resistant to heat, rain, UV rays, and snow and reduce pollution by absorbing carbon dioxide and other toxic gases
Cons
- Bamboo is expensive and is not readily available in all seasons
- As it grows out rapidly and can take over the yard or neighboring property if it is not kept in check, it requires proper pruning and cutting
- It is susceptible to rot if it is not protected against moisture
Green walls (Vertical Garden)
Pros
- Decking planks with dense plants can be an option to be used as a fence
- It looks beautiful, and you can have a variety of plants at the same which makes the place more comforting and livable at the same time
- You can practically plant flowers, herbs, greens, and even vegetables and create a whole new vibe
- Another great idea behind opting for this is it filters the air you breathe and is very good for the environment
Cons
- They require high maintenance and thus more time. They require more water and more fertilizers
- As they require support to grow, smaller plants are more comfortable to be grown than the bigger plants like cucumbers and would require a sturdier support
- They require more care as they are positioned higher and are exposed to wind and heat than regular gardens
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