Hi,
I'm glad I found this forum as I'm somewhat new to the Southwest. I'm wondering if someone can help me find the perfect privacy plants.

We just moved into a house that has a planter up against the back wall. It only comes out about 2 ft. From the wall. I'll attach a photo so you can get an idea. We really want more privacy against this wall but there are pavers in front of the patio that I was hoping to not disturb or displace with plants that have major root systems. We were going to go with Oleanders until I learned how poisonous they are to dogs. Does anyone have any plant recommendations along the same lines? We just need something that grows tall and doesn't have a root system that is destructive to the pool or patio. Unfortunately HOA dictates that we can't put lattice up above 8 feet. (I thought some nice vines would be good until I learned this.) any ideas would be appreciated! I'm even willing to get rid of the planter if need be but only as a last resort.

Hi Noah, welcome.

That planter looks quite full now, Noah. Were you planning to take out those existing plants? They look quite nice as is. Oleander can get quite large and would give you much litter on your patio to sweep up.

You didn't say how tall your existing block wall stands. If it's 6 feet, then a 2' lattice topper might help. Are you trying to block the view down into your space from your neighbor's balcony? I know I'd want that, too.

Since your planter is full and you have concerns about roots, perhaps vegetation isn't the answer. Maybe the answer lies somewhere between extending the block wall up to the 8' max height allowance or metal garden art (that plays off your existing pool fence) staked up, yet behind, the existing bushes? Depending on what you go with and your wind load, perhaps the stakes could be anchored to the block wall, thereby not disturbing the existing root system?

Finally, perhaps an arbor with a top that slants away from the balcony view? Your HOA may have regulations on fence height, but can they regulate an arbor height? Sometimes the most simple solution is the most effective. Would a large offset tilt patio umbrella do the trick?

Just some ideas, Noah.

Here's some photo ideas of the freestanding arbor. You could go as beefy or delicate as desired.... Maybe even get away with anchoring into the block wall? I am not an engineer, Noah, just an idea person. You could S weave fabric through the trellis slats for a "solid" roof, maybe? It might shade your existing plants, though. Just a way to get around planting vegetation that might cause root issues with your patio.

We will be incorporating these into our property next year.

good luck! I know you will find a solution!