How to Decorate a Deck for Privacy

Create a private deck on which to entertain friends.

There are ways in which you can create a private space on your deck. Choose the style that is best for you. Once you have chosen your style, enlist your friends to aid in the erection of your privacy decor. Some projects are as simple as planting your favorite shrubbery and trees, while others have a more artistic bent. The finished product leaves you with an outdoor living space you can enjoy with friends and family.

Things You'll Need

• Plants
• Container Boxes
• 4-inch-by-4-inch posts
• 2-inch-by-2-inch posts
• Lattice
• Staple gun
• Hanging wire
• Curtain clips
• Mildew-resistant fabric
• Old stained glass windows

Instructions

1. 

   Bamboo grows quickly, providing a natural privacy screen.

   Plant noninvasive black bamboo, which grows more than 10 feet per year, in the ground next to your deck. Space the plants about 3 feet apart, and they will quickly fill in as a natural privacy screen. You can also plant American holly bushes in the ground next to your deck. They grow as high as 30 feet.

2. 

   Dense cypress is ideal for privacy.

   Plant willow hybrid cypress, Leyland cypress or Thuja green giant cypress trees in large clay or stone containers or deep wood planter boxes placed directly on the outer edge of your deck for a natural privacy screen. These cypress variations grow from 3 to 6 feet per year and provide a dense screen. Don't rule out potted plants when searching for privacy. Hang potted plants at different heights to create a lush wall of blooms and greenery.

3. Erect lattice along the deck. Plastic and wood lattice usually comes in 4-foot-by-8-foot sections that can be cut to suit your specific needs. Screw 8-foot-tall, 2-inch-thick posts along the outer edge of your deck, placing them 4 feet apart. Use a staple gun to attach the lattice to the outside of the posts. Plant climbing roses or honeysuckle vines in shallow containers along the bottom of the lattice for added privacy and fragrance.

4. 

   Outdoor curtains can be pulled shut for privacy.

   Screw 4-inch-by-4-inch posts into each corner of the deck. Screw eye hooks to the tops of the posts and thread hanging wire between the hooks. Hang colorful, mildew-resistant fabric or drapes from the wire with heavy-duty curtain clips that easily slide back and forth along the wire. Change the fabric with the seasons.

5. Make a frame around the perimeter of your deck using 4-inch-by-4-inch posts that are at least 6 feet tall on each corner. Screw 2-inch-by-2-inch posts between the tops of each larger post. Hang old stained glass windows from the frame at different heights. Paint the edges of the window frames in bold colors, or leave the rough, unpainted edges for a more earthy appearance. This shabby chic look works well with retro patio furniture and country antiques.

References

• Ask The Plant Lady: How to Grow Deck Privacy and Enclosure
• My Patio Deck Designs: Deck Decorating Ideas

Resources

• Fast Growing Trees: Privacy Trees