Besides creating a private and secluded spot within your property boundaries, a fence also provides a safe play area for family and pets. An enclosed yard also is a deterrent to intruders, adding a zone of safety around your home.

ENCLOSE YOURSELF Privacy fencing differs from ornamental fencing, such as a picket fence, because its sole purpose is to block the view–both in and out. It's usually taller–6 feet or more–than ornamental fencing and is built using overlapping or tongue-and-groove construction that creates a true wall. Semi-privacy fencing offers more space between boards and frequently incorporates a see-through airy feature, such as lattice, into the design. Simple wood fencing can be dressed up with climbing vines planted at the base. Clematis, trumpet vine or climbing roses will scramble up and over a fence and cover it with lovely blooms. Or choose a jasmine, which will scent your sitting area with perfumed blooms.

OH DEER Many products discourage deer from munching down your landscape plantings, but the only surefire way to stop them from eating your shrubs to a nub is to fence them out. Luckily, there are a number of attractive, see-through options that allow you to enjoy your property's vistas while keeping the deer population at bay. Fencing should be at least 8 feet tall–because deer are agile jumpers. Deer fencing made from polypropylene plastic is a nearly invisible barrier of 2x2-inch mesh squares. Perfect for wooded areas, this plastic mesh can be hung from cables or strung between trees.

THE NEXT STEP Talk to a fencing expert about creating a deer-free zone in your yard by sealing off other yard entry routes such as walkways and driveways.