Cheap Privacy fence (existing chainlink)

[tataynik]

I need cheap alternatives/ideas/suggestions to have some privacy (other than a regular wooden fence). I have an existing chainlink fence between my backyard and neighbors. Both side yards are regular wooden fence with lattice. Please nothing tacky.

[Dustbunny]

Chainlink is perfect for having plants, shrubs, vines which provide a lot of privacy. You can even use lattice and other taller elements to encourage the vines to grow taller than the chainlink and some grow 20' a year so you could have it done in a season. Shrubs take a little longer but are worth doing as the branches can also offer some coverage during winter and if you intersperse some evergreens in there you have it all year.

Post on freecycle or craigslist to offer to dig out established shrubs and such that people don't want and you can do it for next to nothing.

[Owbist]

Dustbunny has hit it right

Wooden fences start to fall down the day after they are erected but chain link is almost forever. My ex son in law did the vines bit on his chain link and it filled in beautifully.

[tataynik]

Chainlink is perfect for having plants, shrubs, vines which provide a lot of privacy. You can even use lattice and other taller elements to encourage the vines to grow taller than the chainlink and some grow 20' a year so you could have it done in a season. Shrubs take a little longer but are worth doing as the branches can also offer some coverage during winter and if you intersperse some evergreens in there you have it all year.

Post on freecycle or craigslist to offer to dig out established shrubs and such that people don't want and you can do it for next to nothing.

Dustbunny has hit it right

Wooden fences start to fall down the day after they are erected but chain link is almost forever. My ex son in law did the vines bit on his chain link and it filled in beautifully.

Any ideas on what kind of vines look good. Winter coverage would be a plus but not vital since we dont really use the backyard during winter. thanx

[Dustbunny]

Depends where you are and a garden centre could help you out. Some fast growers would include hops, virginia creeper (which looks gorgeous in the fall), and there are lots that flower like clematis, silver lace, honey suckle. Just make sure you get what you want given any work you do or don't want to do. For instance some clematis has to be trimmed down every year, while others you can just leave. You might also look at climbing roses.

For ideas you might want to check veseys.com and do a search for vines as they have pictures and list the zones etc.