It’s no secret that utility boxes can be an eyesore for your lawn, but fear not – there are plenty of creative landscaping ideas to ensure you don’t have to sacrifice curb appeal for practicality. From clever plantings to clever structures, read on for top ideas for hiding your utility boxes and still keeping your yard looking as beautiful as ever.
Landscaping Ideas to Hide Utility Boxes
Having an unsightly utility box in your yard can be a major eye sore. But putting up some creative landscaping around it can help to disguise it and make it blend in more with the surroundings. Here are some great landscaping ideas that you can use to hide those utility boxes:
- Plant a Tree – Planting a tree near your utility box is one of the most effective ways to hide it from sight. Not only will the foliage provide coverage for the box, but you’ll also get the added benefit of having a beautiful new tree in your yard! Be sure to select a species that’s appropriate for your local climate so that the tree will thrive and grow quickly.
- Add a Trellis – Setting up a trellis around your utility box can be an attractive way to cover it up. You can go for a simple, freestanding version or create something more elaborate by training vines to grow over the structure.
- Create a Planter Box – Building a planter box around your utility box is another great option. This will add an aesthetic touch to the area and you can plant flowers in the box that will help to conceal the utility box beneath them. As an added bonus, these also act as natural air filters!
- Use Evergreen Shrubs – Adding evergreen shrubs is another good way to hide your utility box since they keep their foliage year-round. This will provide continuous coverage to the box and also give your yard a nice, lush look.
No matter what landscaping idea you choose, be sure to maintain it regularly so that your utility box stays hidden away from sight. With these tips in mind, you’ll have no problem disguising those unsightly boxes!
Plant shrubs
Shrubs are a great way to hide utility boxes, as they provide an aesthetic backdrop and greenery to the area. When planting shrubs, make sure that you choose varieties that are appropriate for the climate and soil of your specific area. Also, consider their size, shape and color—you don’t want them to look out of place or block any other features in your landscape. Additionally, you should avoid plants with weak woody stems or foliage because they may not be able to withstand windy conditions around utility boxes. Finally, keep in mind that overgrown shrubs can actually draw attention to a utility box rather than hiding it, so remember to prune regularly.
Ornamental grasses
When it comes to utility boxes, ornamental grasses are one of the best options for hiding them. They can be used to create a lush, green coverage that is aesthetically pleasing and also serves as an effective way to block out unsightly features like utility boxes. Ornamental grasses come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can provide cover year-round. Some popular choices include pampas grass, fountain grass, and mondo grass. Or, you could mix up different varieties for an eclectic look. When planting ornamental grasses around your utility box, use well-drained soil and make sure they get plenty of sun. This will help ensure that your plants thrive!
Faux rock
Faux rock is a great way to hide your utility boxes without sacrificing any functionality. Faux rocks come in various shapes and sizes, so you can easily find one that fits your needs and budget. Plus, they look incredibly realistic and can blend into the surrounding landscape. You can even paint them to match the color of your home or garden! The only downside with this option is that it’s not very sturdy, so if you live in an area where there are strong winds, you may have to add additional support for stability. But overall, faux rock is a great choice if you want something that looks natural and won’t break the bank.
A Trellis, Screen or Fence
If your utility box is in a more visible location, you may want to consider hiding it behind a trellis or screen. A trellis is a structure made of horizontal boards and vertical posts that are usually used for climbing plants like ivy or roses. Screens can also be constructed out of wood, lattice, willow branches, bamboo poles, metal sheets, etc., and are great for hiding unsightly items. Fences are another option if you want something more substantial than just screening material.
They come in a variety of materials and styles and can be designed to blend into the landscape. Whichever approach you choose, make sure that the trellis, screen or fence is tall enough so that the box cannot be seen over the top. Additionally, if you have a box that emits noise or smells, you may want to consider soundproofing materials such as acoustic foam and odor-blocking fabrics. This will ensure that your landscape is peaceful and pleasant.
Combination Pot (or Container) & Trellis
Using a combination pot and trellis is an attractive way to hide utility boxes. Pots come in all shapes and sizes so you can choose one that fits the size of your utility box while still being large enough to accommodate plants or vines. You’ll also need to get a trellis that can fit into the pot and be tall enough for your plants or vines to grow up on. Planting flowering vines around the trellis will help disguise it, giving it a softer look when compared with other types of landscaping options. Be sure to keep up with the maintenance of your plants, as they will require regular pruning and watering in order to stay healthy. Once established, this combination pot-trellis setup will be an aesthetically pleasing and functional way to hide your utility box.
Brick Wall
Using bricks to build a wall around your utility box is another great option for hiding it from view. Brick walls offer extra durability and security, as well as being easily customizable in terms of height, color, and design. You’ll need to take measurements of the area where you want to place the wall, then purchase enough bricks (as well as any other necessary materials such as mortar) to build it. You may also want to consider hiring a professional bricklayer if you don’t feel comfortable building a wall yourself. This landscaping option looks good all year round and can really add some character to your yard.
Potted Plants
Using potted plants is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to hide your utility box. All you need to do is measure the area around your utility box, then choose a few large potted plants that will fit in that space while still leaving enough room for air circulation.
You can opt for either deciduous or evergreen varieties, depending on what style you want and how much maintenance you’ll be willing to put into it. This landscaping choice also gives you the freedom of changing up your look whenever you please, as you can simply repot or replace plants with ease. Plus, this method is perfect if you don’t have a green thumb and don’t want to spend too much time maintaining your landscaping!
A Mobile Trellis, Screen or Fence
You can create an attractive mobile trellis, screen or fence to hide your utility box. These items allow you to easily move them around your yard and will still provide adequate shielding from the eyes of passers-by. Depending on the material used, these structures can also add a decorative element to your landscape. Plant climbers such as ivy, jasmine or honeysuckle to soften the look. You might even consider adding lights for additional ambiance! Just make sure that any wiring is done by a professional electrician as safety should be a priority in all landscaping efforts. Additionally, check with local regulations prior to planting anything near utility boxes. By adding these details around the box you’ll have created a beautiful space instead of an eyesore.
Specially Designed Garden Bed
If you are looking for a way to completely hide the utility box, you can consider creating a specially designed garden bed that will cover it. This is an effective option since it will be able to provide full coverage of the box while at the same time adding aesthetic appeal to your landscaping design.
When creating this kind of garden bed, it’s important that you choose plants and shrubs that have shallow roots. Shallow-rooted plants will not cause any damage to the box when they grow taller over time. Make sure that you don’t use fast-growing trees such as conifers or other bottom-spreading trees as their roots can easily spread and cause damage to the utility box.
You can also consider using a fence to hide the utility box or add it as an additional layer of protection. Just make sure that the fence is no taller than two feet and it should not be made out of metal. Using wooden posts with a trellis will create more visual interest in your landscaping design, while still providing adequate coverage for the utility box.
Finally, you can use a mulch to cover up any exposed areas around the perimeter of the garden bed. This will help keep weeds from growing near the utility box, adding both convenience and aesthetic appeal to your landscaped area. [1]
Wood screen
A wood screen is one of the simplest and most effective landscaping ideas that can help to hide utility boxes. Building a wooden privacy fence around the utility box will make it much less visible. You’ll need to use pressure-treated lumber since this type of wood can withstand harsh weather conditions and won’t rot easily. To add an extra layer of privacy, you can also choose to plant evergreen shrubs or trees in front of the fence. This will provide not only additional greenery but also another layer of concealment for your utility box. Just be sure to trim back any overhanging branches regularly so they don’t interfere with the utility box’s functionality.
Attaching planters
Attaching planters to your utility box is a great way to hide it from view. You can use plants, flowers and shrubs to create a vibrant and colourful display that will make your utility box blend in with its surroundings. Start by measuring the dimensions of the utility box. It’s important that you get an accurate measurement so that when you go shopping for planters, you know what size to look for. Once you’ve settled on a size, pick out some attractive planters that will match the surrounding landscaping or architecture of your home. When you have your planters, simply attach them around the perimeter of your utility box with screws. This is an easy and cost-effective way to disguise any unsightly utility boxes. Just be sure to regularly water and maintain your plants, so that they remain healthy and vibrant!
Lattice casing
If your utility box is in an area that doesn’t need to be accessed often, you might consider covering it with a lattice casing. This type of cover can be made out of various materials such as plastic, metal or wood and will provide a decorative element to the landscape design.
The lattice also allows for airflow so the utility box does not overheat and maintains its functioning. To complete the look, you can use climbing plants such as ivy to grow up the sides of the casing and give a more finished appearance. This method should work best if your budget is on the smaller side.
Louvered screens
Louvered screens are a great landscaping solution for hiding utility boxes. They provide an elegant, sophisticated look to the area and offer a degree of privacy from the outside world. The design of louvered screens allows air to flow freely and can even be used to help with noise reduction. Louvered screens come in various materials such as wood, vinyl, metal, and plastic so you can choose one depending on your budget and needs. Additionally, they are easy to install and don’t require much maintenance. To make them more aesthetically pleasing, you can paint them any color you want or add plants around them for a more natural look. With some creativity, louvered screens can become an attractive part of your yard while still providing you with enough privacy and protection from the elements.
Outdoor cabinet
An outdoor cabinet is a great way to hide utility boxes while adding an extra layer of protection. This gives you the convenience of accessing any utilities easily, while also providing a secure storage area and preventing items from being left out in the elements. You can buy ready-made cabinets or build your own with some basic materials and tools. The cabinets come in various sizes and colors, so it won’t be difficult to find one that fits your space perfectly. With the right design and color, it can even become a stylish accent piece for your yard! Utilize these cabinets if you have multiple boxes to cover or if you’d like additional storage solutions.
Matching paints and camouflaging
If you are looking for an inexpensive way to hide your utility box, painting it is a great option. Choose a paint color that matches the exterior of your home.
Add decorative features
You can also add decorative features to the utility box for a more personal touch.
Adding a trellis or lattice around the box is an easy way to draw attention away from it and add texture and interest to your outdoor space. A well-placed garden statue or sculpture can also be used to distract from the utility box while providing your yard with a whimsical focal point.
Simple picket fence
You can surround your utility box with a simple picket fence for an attractive and timeless look. You can either paint the fence white or another color to match your home’s exterior. This is a relatively inexpensive solution and will allow you to hide the utility box from plain sight. If desired, you can even plant flowering shrubs around the perimeter of the fence to add a splash of color and further conceal the utility box. It’s important to make sure that there is ample space between the fence and the utility box so that maintenance workers have easy access when needed.
Angled wood fence on a floral bed
A great way to hide utility boxes is by installing an angled wood fence over them. You can create a verdant, rustic look with plants like wildflowers or ornamental grasses. To give the landscaping even more of a country feel, you can add a few shrubs in the mix. Just make sure that the wood fence is installed at an angle so that it doesn’t block sunlight from reaching the utility box beneath. For added beauty and style, place colorful floral blooms around the base of each post to create a stunning backdrop for your outdoor space.
Go Low
The simplest landscaping idea to hide utility boxes is to go low. You can easily camouflage these pesky structures by planting shrubs or perennials around the box. The foliage will cover up the box and create a natural look in your yard. Just make sure you don’t plant anything too big that could block access to the box or cause it damage. Some plants that work well for this are juniper, lavender, rosemary, and other groundcover varieties.
Leave it to the flowers
If you have the space and resources, a good solution to cover up an eyesore like a utility box is to plant large shrubs or bushes around it. You could go all in with either one type of plant or mix and match different types of greenery depending on your preferences. Planting taller plants around the box can also help draw attention away from it, such as trees or tall grasses. If you live in a climate where flowers bloom year round, consider putting some colorful annuals nearby for extra visual interest. Just make sure that when selecting plants, you choose ones that won’t grow too quickly or out of control – otherwise, they’ll end up blocking access to the utility box!
Another great way to disguise a utility box is with a living wall. This can be done by planting small flowering shrubs or climbers along the fence that surrounds it. The colorful blooms will create a beautiful display, while also helping to hide the utilitarian structure behind it. For an even more intricate look, you could try using trailing plants such as ivy, which can easily spread and cover the whole area in no time at all.
Finally, if you’re looking for something low maintenance but still want to add some color, consider adding some hardscaping features around your utility box. You could make use of coloured pavers or pebbles for a neat and tidy look – or go for something more creative like painted stones or ceramic tiles. No matter what you choose, a little bit of creativity can help make your utility box blend into its surroundings in no time!
By taking the time to think of creative landscaping ideas to hide utility boxes, you can easily transform an eyesore into a beautiful feature that fits right into your garden. With a little bit of planning and some hard work, you’ll be able to find the perfect solution for making sure these necessary structures don’t get in the way of enjoying your outdoor space.
Think outside the box
Don’t limit yourself to traditional landscaping elements when looking for a way to hide utility boxes. Get creative by thinking outside the box and considering other materials, such as metal screens or lattices, that can be used to create an attractive feature around the box. For example, you might construct a wooden frame around the box and attach metal screening or decorative fabric over it. Or, use bamboo poles connected with wire to create a natural-looking fence. If your utility boxes are in plain sight at ground level, consider building a raised bed around them using wood planks and filling it with soil and plants – this will give the box some privacy while also providing some extra beauty to your garden. There are plenty of creative ideas out there – just use your imagination!
Faux rocks
If you want to disguise utility boxes in your yard, one of the easiest ways is to use faux rocks. These are lightweight and easy to place over the box. You can even get specially designed ones with compartments in them for hiding cords or other items.
They come in a variety of colors and sizes to fit whatever area you’re working with. Plus, they’re cheap and extremely durable, so you don’t have to worry about them getting damaged during winter months or inclement weather. If you go this route, just make sure that the faux rocks completely cover up the box so it’s not visible at all. With some creativity and effort, using faux rocks is an excellent way to hide utility boxes in your yard without any major hassle.
Bi-fold screens
Bi-fold screens are an effective way of hiding utility boxes. You can use them to shield your property from the eyesore of a utility box while making sure they remain accessible when needed.
Line in the pots
Line in the pots is a great way to hide utility boxes. This technique consists of planting plants in large pots and then arranging them along the edge of the box so that it’s hidden from view. You can use different types of plants, such as flowers, shrubs, grasses or trees to create a beautiful landscape around the box. Make sure you select plants that are suited for the area and provide some shade if necessary.
Additional Tips
Apart from creating a landscape around utility boxes, there are several other creative ways to conceal them. Here are some of our favorite tips:
- Use camouflage netting or fabric. Camouflage netting and fabric can be used to blend the box in with its surroundings. You can attach the fabric directly to the box, or use it as a backdrop behind the box.
- Plant a vine or creeper. Vines and creepers such as ivy, honeysuckle, and jasmine can be trained along trellises or arbors to cover up an ugly utility box. Make sure that you plant your vines away from vulnerable parts of the utility so that they don’t interfere with its functioning.
- Add a rock garden. If you have a large utility box in your yard, consider using rocks to create an attractive rock garden around it. Rocks can be arranged in various patterns or designs to draw the eye away from the utility and add visual interest to your landscape.
- Use a raised planter box. Raised planter boxes are perfect for hiding unsightly utilities while adding texture and height to your landscaping scheme. Fill the planter box with low-maintenance plants such as succulents, herbs, or flowers for added appeal.
With these simple tips, you can easily hide utility boxes in your yard and make them blend into the surrounding landscape. Whether you choose to build a rock garden, plant a vine, or use camouflage netting or fabric, there are plenty of creative ways to conceal your utility box and add beauty to your yard.
Remember that it’s important to keep your utilities in good condition and make sure they’re functioning properly; otherwise, you may end up with costly repairs down the road. So take the time to regularly inspect your boxes and make sure they are working as they should be before attempting any landscaping projects.
FAQ
How do I hide my utility boxes in my yard?
There are a few options you can consider when it comes to hiding your utility boxes in your yard. The first is to camouflage them with plants and vegetation. You can add shrubs, trees or climbing vines that have thick foliage to conceal the box from sight. Another option is to build a structure around the box, such as a trellis or fence panel, or even install an artificial rock cover. If you want a more permanent solution, you could consider burying the utility box underground. This will require professional installation and should be done by someone with experience in handling buried utilities. Finally, if none of these solutions work for you, there are plenty of decorative covers available that can help make your utility box blend into its surroundings and look less obtrusive.
What can I plant around my utility box?
There are a number of different plants that you can use to add visual interest and cover up your utility box. Depending on the size and shape of your utility box, and the climate in which you live, there could be quite a few options available to you.
For instance, if you have a small area around your utility box, consider planting tall grasses or ornamental grasses for height. You can also find perennial flowering plants that will not only provide year-round color but also camouflage the box itself. If space allows, shrubs and trees are great choices as well because they offer both coverage and texture to the landscape. Consider varieties such as juniper, holly, spruce, rhododendron, and boxwood.
You could also add a few small bushes like azaleas, hydrangeas, or lilacs to soften the look of your utility box. You can even choose flowering plants in bright colors such as annuals and perennials to draw attention away from the box itself. Finally, you could try planting ground cover plants around the perimeter of your utility box for an extra bit of camouflage. Examples include vinca vine, lamb’s ear, creeping phlox, and mondo grass. [3]
No matter what type of landscaping project you decide on – whether it’s trees, shrubs, flowers, groundcovers or grasses – remember that the goal is to hide the utility box while creating a beautiful landscape.
Can you landscape around an electrical box?
Yes, landscaping around an electrical box is possible with some creative design ideas. Depending on the size and placement of the utility box, you can create a landscape that works to hide it from view. Here are some ideas for landscaping around your electrical box:
- Plant a shrub or small tree nearby – Depending the size of the utility box and your yard space, you may be able to plant a shrub or small tree near it as a way to cover it up. This is especially effective if the plant has large leaves or long branches that can hang down over the top of the box.
- Construct a wall or fence – Building a low stone wall or wooden fence around the area where your utility boxes is located can help to hide it from view. This also adds a nice touch to the landscape and provides extra privacy for your yard.
- Add some decoration – If you have an old, unattractive utility box, consider adding some decorative elements around it like trellises or planters to create a more visually appealing look. [4]
Make sure you follow all safety regulations when landscaping around an electrical box so that you don’t risk injury or damage to your home or property. With the right design ideas, landscaping around an electrical box can be both functional and aesthetically pleasing!
Can I paint the utility box in my yard?
Yes, you can paint the utility box in your yard to help it blend into its surroundings. However, this may not be a great solution if the box is visible from the street or other public areas as it could draw attention rather than blend in. It’s also important to check with your local utility company before painting their property. They may have specific requirements for colors and design that must be followed.
If painting isn’t a viable option, there are plenty of other creative landscaping ideas for hiding utility boxes that might work better. For example, planting trees or shrubs around the box will help disguise it without creating any unnecessary eyesores. You can also use foliage such as vines to create an attractive covering around the box while still allowing for easy access and functionality.
Finally, if you have the budget for it, there are also pre-made utility box covers that can be used to completely hide the box from view. These boxes typically come in neutral colors like brown or green, so they fit seamlessly into most residential landscapes. While this solution is more expensive than some of the other options, it could be worth considering if you want a complete disguise without any maintenance. [5]
There’s no one right way to hide a utility box in your yard; it all depends on your individual tastes and needs. Whether you decide to paint the box, plant foliage around it, or invest in a cover – with a little creativity and planning, you can find an option that works for you!
Useful Video: 27 Best Landscaping Ideas To Hide Utility Boxes
Conclusion
Landscaping is a great way to help hide ugly utility boxes. However, make sure that you are careful and follow the advice of professionals when deciding on your landscaping plan. With a few simple steps and some creativity, you can create an attractive landscape that will not only hide your utility box but also add beauty to your yard or garden. Remember that it is important to take into consideration the size of the utility box, as well as the surrounding area before selecting plants or other landscaping ideas. With proper planning and forethought, you can create an attractive outdoor space while still keeping those unsightly boxes out of sight!
Good luck with hiding those eyesores! Enjoy the process and have fun creating your beautiful outdoor oasis.
References:
- https://howtogardendesign.com/hide-a-utility-box-with-7-landscaping-ideas-that-wont-be-removed/
- https://farmfoodfamily.com/landscaping-ideas-to-hide-utility-boxes/
- https://www.weekand.com/home-garden/article/plants-plant-front-utility-box-18059223.php
- https://www.evergreenseeds.com/landscaping-around-electrical-boxes/
- https://www.homehackerdiy.com/can-i-paint-my-electrical-box-in-my-yard/