3. The Vertical “Living Screen”

If your patio feels exposed, use containers to build a wall of green. By using a series of tall, narrow rectangular planters, you can create a portable, lush privacy screen that feels much more natural and elegant than a standard wooden fence. This is a brilliant way to define your outdoor space while enjoying the beauty of dense, leafy foliage.

How to Make

Purchase 3 to 5 tall, slim, rectangular planters. Line them up along the edge of your patio. Fill them with fast-growing, upright plants like Bamboo or tall ornamental grasses. Because these containers are narrow, be sure to use a heavier base (like large river rocks) to keep them from tipping over in the wind. The repetition creates a clean, architectural line that provides immediate privacy and a serene, “enclosed” atmosphere.

Things Needed

  • Tall, narrow rectangular planters
  • Upright plants (Bamboo or tall grasses)
  • Large rocks for base weight
  • High-performance potting soil