Backyard redoing?

Lattice panels can hide the wooded area

https://www.hometalk.com/diy/grow/landscaping/how-to-make-an-easy-patio-privacy-screen-step-by-step-tutorial-2087206

https://www.hometalk.com/diy/grow/landscaping/lattice-wall-for-backyard-privacy-30291246

https://www.hometalk.com/diy/windows-doors/8-diy-privacy-screens-for-your-outdoor-areas-9042244

A seating area with a firepit

https://www.hometalk.com/search/posts?filter=fire%20pit

Hi Ed, How about some limestone down for the doggie, and plant some plants by the chainlink fence to brighten it up, you can even plant a vine on the fence, here are some dog safe plants, many plants pose no threat to dogs. They include snapdragons, Michaelmas daisies, camellias, honeysuckle, lavender, rose, sunflowers, elaeagnus, centaurea (cornflower), impatiens and calendula. Hope this helps you out, I attached a pic, you may want to think about a hedge along the chainlink as well

Here's what we did to basically build a privacy fence. Cost was less than $10! Within a year they were 3 feet high. The following year, over 6 feet high.

https://countrylivinginacariboovalley.com/how-to-grow-a-laurel-hedge-from-cuttings/

Or just plant vines to grow up and cling to the chain link fence.

Hi! I like shrubs for hiding something like your fence. Some grow quite large, so ask for recommended ones at a local nursery. If you like the fence that is in the other part of your yard, that is another possibility. Since you already have a good sized patio, what are your wishes about upkeep. Let's face it, unless you want to be working in the yard, lower maintenance like mulched flower beds with flowers that brighten the yard, throughout the season that aren't a lot of maintenance can fit the bill. I love lilies, lilac, iris, decorative grass, forsythia, miniature hydrangeas, mums, daisies, etc. If your little dig likes to dig at them, you could do a raised bed in front of the metal fencing, which should keep them out, and be easier on your back. A grassy area for the pup, and you will both be happy. Good luck!

Hi Ed, you plans sound lovely and it's going to be such a pretty place to relax and unwind once you're done. Here's a few inexpensive privacy fencing ideas that may work for you - https://www.budgetdumpster.com/blog/backyard-privacy-ideas/ . I also found this beautiful site with w whole bunch of tips and tricks for designing small backyards - https://www.countryliving.com/gardening/news/g4183/small-backyard-ideas/ Good luck and hope you have loads of fun making over your backyard.

Here are some really nice ideas from Pinterest:

https://www.pinterest.com/nmerc19/hide-fence/

Hello Ed,

Grow plants up Chain link ,eg: Climbers : jasmine,Passion flower, Perpetual Sweetpea,Roses. Veg: Runner Beans, tomatoes cucumber,Grapes..............

For Lawn: Level compact,rake lawn area and set seed, water.

Stepping stones: buy 12" slabs or make using concrete in greased cake tin or line with polythene.

Best wishes...........

Hi Ed, have you thought about contacting your County Extension Agent? They often have good information about what plants grow well in the local area and I believe they sometimes will even do some soil testing for residents to learn what soil amendments might help certain plantings to grow well. It might be helpful for you to check that out since you have very clay-like soil. Lots of possibilities to make your place look great with either plantings or suggestions/pictures of lattice. I wish you well!