A trellis placed in front of a wall is a good way to dress up the vertical surface.

Inside homes, people often use pictures, art, paint, window treatments and other items to create visual interest on walls. Take that concept to the garden, and think about how fences and the exterior walls of homes and other buildings define the yard.

There are many ways to “decorate” fences and walls in the garden to soften their appearance and make the garden feel more like an extension of your home.

One of the easiest ways to soften a flat upright surface is to grow a vining plant on it. Boston ivy and Virginia creeper are good choices for a traditional vine-covered look.

Avoid English ivy in most cases. Although it is unlikely to cause structural damage on sound masonry, it will find its way into tiny cracks and could compound problems. It is also heavy and aggressive.

For a different look and a little depth, try growing a smaller vine on a trellis in front of the wall or fence. Pipevine, clematis, climbing hydrangea and wisteria are good options for trellises. On a long wall, use multiple trellises to break up the space or create frames for plants growing in front. Trellises can be anything from inexpensive fencing panels to elaborate one-of-a-kind pieces.

Another option is to build a structure to grow plants in and on. Living wall systems are popular right now, but you could also install shelves or frames on which to set flower pots. Set them at eye level as you would a shelf or picture on an interior wall. With the right kind of hanger, pots can also be attached directly to the fence or wall. Old pallets can also be repurposed to create window box style planters that can be hung on a wall or fence or simply positioned in front.

Weatherproof art is another option. Find a sculpture to hang or paint a mural directly on the wall or fence. (Find an artistic friend to help with this if necessary.) On another section of fence, hang an old window or a large empty picture frame to draw the viewers eye.

If there is a hedge along the wall or fence, alternate heights to create the look of pillars or to draw attention to other plants nearby.

Where seating is an option, place a bench or a table and chairs with the wall as a backdrop and lots of plants nearby.

— Jennifer Smith is a former horticulture extension agent for K-State Research and Extension and horticulturist for Lawrence Parks and Recreation. She is the host of “The Garden Show.” Send your gardening questions and feedback to features@ljworld.com.