The desire for a private backyard is certainly not limited to celebrities, because, after all, nobody wants to be interrupted or overlooked while relaxing in the sun. Naturally, however, the world's most famous figures have mastered the art of privacy planting in a way that is both secure and serene, led by Meghan and Harry.
Meghan recently shared a rare glimpse inside their family's Montecito yard, where established shrubs and trees fill the borders. The tall, overflowing nature of these shrubs ensures the yard feels verdant and hidden from the rest of the world, while looking beautiful.
Many of the best plants for privacy simultaneously add aesthetic value to a yard, as Meghan's space emphasizes. Her trees and shrubs feel curated, but also have a sense of wildness that may encourage wildlife into the family's yard.
Plus, while their home is certainly not compact, garden experts say their technique is replicable on a much smaller scale.
Shop H&G's top privacy plants
This gorgeous, classic ivy is perfect for achieving a European-inspired aesthetic. Its deep green color and climbing properties make it the ideal choice for vertical gardening.
This easy care plant is a perennial, meaning it will grow back year after year. The tiny flowers are ideal for adding a pop of color to a vertical garden.
My personal favorite climbing plant is a vined hydrangea, and these ones from Amazon do not disappoint. I love the look of fluffy blooms on a thick vine.
‘Meghan’s intelligent shrub and tree planting brings privacy to her and family, but we can follow her example, even if it’s on a smaller scale, comments Thom Rutter, Homes & Gardens’ content editor and in-house master gardener.
‘There are various established shrubs and trees that fill her garden’s borders, and create that sense of enclosure. In smaller gardens, I would choose quick-growing shrubs, like lilacs, as well as lush and dense climbing plants, such as Clematis cirrhosa and Clematis armandii, which, when placed in a sheltered, sunny spot, can grow into an abundant privacy plant that will fill walls and fences with foliage and flowers.
’In a small garden where space is at an even greater premium, Thom suggests maximizing on climbing plants to make use of growing upwards, rather than outwards. He suggests using evergreens, such as English ivy, which will give your garden year-round greenery and also support the tranquil, calming aesthetic, while keeping it hidden from the rest of the world.
‘A sprawling climbing hydrangea is another wonderful alternative for smaller gardens. This beautiful plant is perfect for city and courtyard gardens, where privacy is hard to come by, but no less desired,’ Thom adds.
As summer approaches, we're rushing to follow Meghan's lead in our own homes. It's surprisingly so simple, beautiful, and, above all, secure.
