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8 plants that instantly hide wheelie bins, fences and messy garden corners
Make unsightly corners far less noticeable
Looking to hide an eyesore in the garden? From wheelie bins to plastic toys, these low-maintenance plants make unsightly corners far less noticeable — and are incredibly easy to grow.
Many of these plants naturally create screening and year-round coverage, helping to fill gaps, block views and disguise clutter. Climbers such as wisteria and ivy are also great options for growing up a fence, providing height and privacy from neighbouring properties.
Before you begin, Hugh Flannery, Gardening Expert at Airtasker, says to think about practical considerations such as height and width.
"Soil type, sunlight levels, and plant compatibility all play a big role in how successful a hedge will be. For best results, prepare the soil well before planting by removing weeds and adding organic matter or compost. Most hedging plants establish best when planted during the cooler months, and they'll need regular watering during their first growing season to help develop strong roots."
On that note, take a look at the top plants to cover up bins, bare fences and awkward corners fast:
Beech hedges
"Deciduous hedging works brilliantly for screening," says Hugh.
"Beech hedges, for example, hold onto their dried copper-coloured leaves through autumn and winter, which helps maintain coverage and structure even after the growing season has ended. They can create a softer, more natural look in the garden."
Miscanthus (maiden grass)
For a more natural, softer aesthetic, miscanthus (maiden grass) is an excellent choice. Growing up to eight feet, it's a great option for hassle-free, year-round screening. Plant near a fence or bin for extra privacy.
Leslie adds: "Space plants 3-4 feet apart, in full sun, and miscanthus are very drought-tolerant after they have become established. Trim down to 6 inches in late winter, then walk away; that's all there is to it."
Cherry laurel
With its dark, glossy leaves, cherry laurel is an exceptional screening plant that can naturally conceal bins and messy corners in the garden.
"It has dense evergreen leaves all year long, it grows 2 to 3 feet every year, and it has no awkward bare branches right at the base of the plant, so the entire reason for using a screening plant is not rendered useless," says Leslie Ward, an interior design and property expert.
"This plant can grow as tall as 10 to 18 feet and as wide as 5 to 7 feet, and it does not care if it receives full sun or partial shade."
Wisteria and clematis
Climbers such as wisteria and clematis are ideal for growing along walls and fences. Cascading with beautiful scent and colour, they'll add both interest and privacy.
"For the best results, choose climbers that offer good coverage and complement the overall style of your garden," explains Charlie Barrett, garden expert at Shedstore.
Clumping bamboo
Bamboo is another great screening option, growing thick and tall. Just make sure you choose the clumping variety, which stays in one place; spreading bamboo is invasive and can take over your garden quicker than you think.
"Plant it in large pots if you can for extra control, and give it a shady spot with moist soil," says Loren Taylor, owner of Outdoor Fountain Pros.
Red tip photinia (red robin)
Red tip photinia (red robin), a fast-growing evergreen shrub that creates colourful screening, can easily hide wheelie bins and other unsightly garden views. It can reach heights of up to 3-4 metres if left alone, but it also benefits from annual pruning to maintain its shape.
Boxwood
"Boxwood takes a little longer than others to reach the desired height, but this shrub is extremely neat and looks polished," says Leslie.
"It is a great choice for smaller screens or if you desire an elegant, intentional appearance without looking desperate to conceal something (even though you do)."
Lisa Joyner is the Deputy Daily Editor at House Beautiful UK and Country Living UK, where she's busy writing about home and interiors, gardening, dog breeds, pets, health and wellbeing, countryside news, small space inspiration, and the hottest properties on the market. Previously, she has written for Conde Nast Traveller, House & Garden and Marie Claire magazine. Lisa studied at University For The Creative Arts, where she completed a BA in Fashion Journalism.
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