Looking for a little extra privacy in your garden or on the patio without having to stare at a boring gray wall? You’re in luck! There are plenty of plants that can create a living screen with gorgeous foliage. One of my absolute favorites for this is Zebra Grass. Here’s the lowdown on how to use it in your outdoor space.
A Living Privacy Screen Made of Greenery
Zebra Grass is an ornamental grass that can reach heights of over six feet. If you want to get the most out of its privacy potential, I recommend looking for varieties with an upright growth habit. This plant grows thick and bushy, making it a perfect natural barrier that looks way better than a concrete fence. Originally from China, it gets its name from those distinctive horizontal yellow stripes that look just like zebra markings. Between the patterns and the fan-shaped blooms, it’s a real showstopper. However, there are a few things to keep in mind before you start digging.
The Right Way to Water and Feed
- Use rainwater or filtered water whenever possible.
- Go easy on the fertilizer—a little compost or humus once in a while is plenty.
- Make sure the soil drains well; “wet feet” (standing water) is a big no-no.
One thing to watch out for: this grass develops a very strong root system that loves to spread out and hog all the water from its neighbors. To keep it in check, you should either install a root barrier or grow your Zebra Grass in a large planter. Using a container is actually a great hack because it lets you move your “privacy wall” around whenever you feel like rearranging the patio. Just make sure you pick a sunny spot, or those iconic stripes might start to fade.
Caring for Your Zebra Grass Screen
When winter rolls around, just let the grass do its thing and leave it alone. Once spring arrives, it’s time for a haircut! You can prune the plant all the way down to just above the ground. Don’t worry, you won’t hurt it—in fact, cutting it back actually encourages fresh, vigorous growth. By the time the weather warms up and you’re ready to hang out on the balcony again, your natural privacy screen will be back and better than ever.
