How to Hide a Metal Outdoor Garbage Can

Outdoor metal garbage cans are a necessity, but they can also be unsightly. Hiding or disguising an outdoor garbage can depends on your needs and taste. If animals are a problem, buying or building a shed solves it. However, if you simply want to hide the cans from view, build a small fence or plant bushes. Lattice fences are inexpensive and easy to make. Bushes and shrubbery add to the overall outdoor appearance of your home.

Lattice Fence

• 1

  Measure the height and width of the garbage cans with a measuring tape. The lattice fence should be slightly higher than the cans.

• 2

  Purchase lattice sidings and several 2-by-4 pieces of lumber. Lattice siding comes in different colors and materials. Buy a color that blends in with your house or is easily painted.

• 3

  Dig fence post holes for the 2-by-4 pieces of lumber with a shovel. Make the holes 3 feet deep.

• 4

  Place the 2-by-4s into the post holes and fill in the hole with dirt. Check the level of the post with a plumb line and make any necessary adjustments until the posts are level.

• 5

  Install the lattice siding onto the posts using screws and the screwdriver.

• 6

  Plant vine-growing plants around the lattice. The vines help disguise and hide the garbage cans.

Plants And Shrubbery

• 1

  Look around your property and pick a location for the bushes. The location should receive plenty of sunlight and good drainage.

• 2

  Visit your local garden center and investigate the various plant options for your locale. Evergreen bushes hide unsightly objects because they provide yearround protection. Buy the bushes that best suits your needs and aesthetic landscaping tastes.

• 3

  Dig a hole for the bush using a shovel. The size of the hole depends on the size of the bush.

• 4

  Remove the synthetic burlap covering from the root ball of the bush. The burlap is easily cut with a utility knife. Place the root ball into the hole and cover it with dirt. Water the bush.