Creating a small privacy screen on your deck with urban planter boxes is a fantastic way to add greenery and seclusion. The number of boxes you'll need depends primarily on the length of the area you want to screen and your desired density.
A standard rectangular planter box is often about 24 inches (2 feet) long. For a basic visual barrier, placing boxes side-by-side is common. To calculate, simply divide the length of your deck's edge (in feet) by 2. For example, to screen an 8-foot section, you would need approximately 4 boxes placed directly together.
However, for a more natural and effective screen, consider spacing them slightly. Positioning boxes 6-12 inches apart allows plant foliage to fill in the gaps beautifully as they grow. Using this method, for an 8-foot span, you might use 3 boxes with spacing. Always choose tall, dense plants like bamboo, ornamental grasses, arborvitae, or tall annuals. Staggering boxes in two rows can also create a fuller screen faster. Start with a plan, measure your space, and remember that plant growth will enhance your privacy over time.