Although your backyard landscaping stops at the fence line, it shouldn't stop before the fence line. Many homeowners give thought and plan out their landscape design throughout the yard, but they leave the actual fence line out of the equation. Why is the landscape of a fence line important? And what should you know about it? Here are a few important answers to your questions. 

Why Is the Fence Line Important?

The fence line is your last opportunity to curate the look of the yard. Leaving it unfinished could be akin to failing to choose that one final touch for the perfect outfit before you leave home. You've created the yard with all the right elements, but an unadorned fence then makes a stark contrast that could ruin the effect. 

On a practical note, an unfinished fence line could create problems when caring for your landscape. Grass along the fence may be hard to mow and weed, allowing it to become unkempt. This could also contribute to weed and pest issues in nearby areas. Erosion and lack of plantings can also lead to drainage problems — both from your side and from the neighbor's side. 

How Can You Use the Fence?

The good news is that the fence itself provides a unique landscape feature you can use to add to the overall effect. It's a backdrop, so use height in ways that you may not in the rest of the landscape. For instance, plant tall bushes along the fence itself, adding layers of shorter and shorter greenery in front to camouflage a less-attractive fence. This also softens the fence line and blends it in. 

Consider using the actual fence as well. For instance, slatted fences are ideal places to grow climbing vines and support taller flowers and shrubs for added greenery. Have a solid fence? A few well-placed nails or hooks give you plenty of places to string both flowering and edible vines. Or use it as an artistic background by hanging backyard art, pots, or planter boxes so they can be enjoyed from afar. 

What Pitfalls Should You Avoid?

Of course, just because you can plant around the fence doesn't mean you shouldn't take some precautions. As the most distant part of the yard, it's less accessible. So planting beds should be low maintenance, perhaps using mulch and native plants. Work with a landscape designer to ensure the right amount of water retention in this tricky area. 

Where Can You Start?

The best place to begin designing your fence line is with a landscape design service such as Estate Landscape. They'll help you make the most of whatever fence you have and use it as the ultimate background for the perfect finishing touches on your yard.