Grungy Backyard
I have a pretty decent sized backyard that I share with the rest of the ground floor (about 4 apartments) but no one ever goes back there, probably because there is a group of guys always hanging out in the parking lot next door being rude, and also because its not really maintained. That leads…
I have a pretty decent sized backyard that I share with the rest of the ground floor (about 4 apartments) but no one ever goes back there, probably because there is a group of guys always hanging out in the parking lot next door being rude, and also because its not really maintained. That leads me to two questions: 1) Would anyone suggest an easy-to-grow plant that I could plant along the tall wire link fence that seperates the lot and the backyard? I would love it if it were covered in ivy but that would take way too long and I was hoping to have some coverage for this summer. Im pretty sure that the fence gets direct sunlight all day. And 2) could someone suggest some seeds I could plant/ toss into the yard for maybe some wildflowers or something? There is not much sun in the backyard thanks to a huge dogwood tree back there and Im really not looking to spend too much time on this yard nor do I have any gardening experience. Would I have to plow up that dirt back there?
Thanks in advance!
Brooklyn backyards present a pretty tough enviroment, even for experienced gardeners. So although you said you don’t want a big time commitment, do consider a few issues:
i) Plants won’t grow in crappy soil but you can amend it by spending an afternoon digging over the yard and forking in peat moss, composted manure, and a lightener like sand or perlite.
ii) Plants also won’t grow without water so think about how you are going to access the water supply. Ideally, bring a hose up from the cellar or nearest kitchen; otherwise be prepared to carry watering cans.
iii) Most flower seeds tossed into a Brooklyn backyard become instant bird or squirrel food. Better to start the seeds in containers and then replant the seedlings.
iv) Be careful to match the planst you buy with the sun/shade condtions of your space. Read the labels.
Good luck! Who knows, you may find yourself addicted to gardening.
illiq, so true, will remember that one.
Morning Glorys grow really quickly and will cover the fence between your yard and your neighbor’s. Just plant them along the base of the fence and you’ll be surprised at how quickly you will have a barrier.
zip tie some bamboo/reed fencing to the existing fence… it’ll last 2 years or so (long enough for the plants to take over), and can be removed in 5 min with scissors if someone complains
remember.. it’s easier to ask forgiveness than to ask for permission…. this rule applies to most things related to NYC apartment dwelling 🙂
About throwing some seeds out in the yard: if you’re not really interested in gardening, I’d suggest you get a couple of the containers (already planted/arranged) from the Home Depot in late April and set them out with an eye to the view from your windows. (You will have to water these every so often if they’re in direct sun and it doesn’t rain.)
Thanks everyone, so helpful. I Think im going to try either the hyacinth beans, morning glories or clematis. Going to do a little research on them. I want to avoid the fence coverings from home depot because its unclear whos fence it actually is plus im a renter and some people might be uncool with it. I also am not sure how long I will actually be there so coverage for this summer would be ideal. I love the patio/sand idea too, thanks again.
Silver lace vine (plygonum auberti), clematis paniculata (sweet autumn clematis): both grow fast, cover completely, and are perennials (they’ll make it through the winter and continue to spread). You can also sow a few packets of morning glory seeds along the fence line. About the ivy: I wouldn’t want it on (or near) masonry. But it’s great for covering chain-link fencing: just plug some cuttings into the ground along the fence line, then weave the ivy through the chain-links as it grows.
I agree with hyacinth bean and it is beautiful but it is an annual. The cheap stockade fence from home depot is cheap and if you put the fence up backwards so the part that you see has the 2×4 showing in the middle that holds the fence together it is alot more attractive and you can use that 2×4 to hold and decorate with flower bags or window boxes etc.
Second the hyacinth bean — they grow about 20 feet in no time. Ditto morning glories, or any in that family — cardinal flower, moon flowers. For more permanent cover, try honeysuckle in the sun, or a climbing hydrangea in the shade. Latter is slow to start though — would take a couple of years. Clematis is the Vine of Choice if you can wait a couple of seasons to let it establish itself — a jackmanii is easy once it gets going.
Try to stay away from ivy — it’s a weed, really, imported from England, kills anything it can get its tentacles on, and is absolutely unkillable itself.