Watering? What is watering? You say you live in the Northeast, not some desert somewhere.

The issue with ornamental grasses is that they should be cut down annually. With one or two, it isn't a big deal. With a dozen? I know people who do it with electric chain saws, but you still have to haul off the debris.

So I'd be thinking more in terms of shrubs. That gets into what you value in your landscaping. Showy flowers? Low maintenance? Winter interest?

If you want shrub suggestions, think about those questions, and tell us where in the Northeast you are. My guess is . . . southern Connecticut, but what will grow near the shore won't necessarily work in Binghamton.

We're on Cape Cod. It's been very dry lately thats why I think grasses are our best bet. Chainsaws are not a problem and the debris can go in the woods that surround the property. I've got some grasses in mind that I plan to transplant. Some are striped and some are not. Thought theyd look good alternated .

I think the fence is attractive, I wouldn't feel a need to block it from view. I'd plant a couple of small trees (dogwood or redbud) and stop there.

Don't alternate, and please use native grasses. There are a number of very handsome Panicums, And Andropogon "Blackhawks' is stunning.

Sort of what cecily & laceyvail said-/ would abound just a row of stuff lined up, which emphasizes the line of fence. Don’t “alternate” - group things.

I can see planting things you actually like & want to see—a small ornamental tree(s), letting the fence show past the tree trunk; shrubs that may be smaller evergreens or have blooms or both ( things that are right for amount of sun) , try to sort of “ undulate”, bringing some plantings out closer to the drive, and others not, and even some “ bare” sections, all which de- emphasizes the linearity of fence. I saw some pics like that in a gardening article somewhere. The benefit of that also is that while it would be good to doodle a rough design plan— draw the swoops, think about best places for taller and for shorter plants—but you can plant in stages. Also if something turns out not to be happy there, it’s not a “ hedge”, it’s softer looking and can try a new plant.

Here is a suggestion using potentilla:

New Jersey Tea should do well, as long as your don't have deer. Blackhaw Viburnum is great for dry areas and deer don't like it. I'd add a few shrubs.

I have no problem with alternating grasses.

You are going to have to water new plants well for some time.