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The traditional idea developed
in the 1850s of front gardens as tiny pieces of lawn, surrounded
by flower beds and a few shrubs, isn't necessarily the most
exciting one. A dense planting, perhaps with smallish trees right
by the house, can give a much more exciting and romantic approach
as well as screening the house from neighbours, passers-by and
the street. Dense planting can also reduce the effect of street
noise, though it will mean a slight loss of light from front
ground-floor rooms (although deciduous trees will allow plenty of
winter light, if you can cope with fallen leaves).
North American and
continental European suburbs are always much more leafy than
British ones, and even in deep shade lovely plantings are
possible. Many old town gardens have high stone or brick walls
which are perfect for mixes of climbers. In modern housing
developments, divisions between gardens are more likely to be low
timber fences or wires tautened between posts, which also offer
good planting opportunities. Before you rush out to buy a hundred
'Leylandii' conifers, consider using a stout trellis to support
climbers. Use treated laths measuring at least 2.5 x20 cm (1 x8
in), spaced at 30 cm (12 in) intervals - nailed vertically and
horizontally and well supported on 10x10cm (4x4in) posts. Metal
post-holders are simpler to use than concrete for securing the
posts, and easier to replace if needed. In small spaces, a
planted trellis will take up much less room than a hedge
(especially of conifers), take less out of the ground, and give
you a great deal more pleasure. It will give you privacy just as
quickly. It is possible to buy trellis panels in fancy
architectural designs, often painted dazzling white or bright
green. Lovely in shop window displays or as a restaurant fitting,
they can, however, be rather dominating in a garden.
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