Privacy Hedges – Trees, Shrubs and Climbing Vine

Fast growing trees can be used as privacy hedges. If adequate space is available, there are several trees that grow 3′ to 5′ per year, up to 20′ in height. The Thugia Evergreen Tree is a fast growing tree that will grow 3′ to 5′ per year in zones 5 through 9. The Arborvitae Evergreen Tree is a popular hedge tree, but over time it takes up a lot of space. The Nellie Stevens Holly Tree is a fast growing holly that also offers year round hedge privacy.

For greater noise reduction, build an earthen berm 3′ to 4′ high. Plant pines and cedars staggered along the top and sides of the berm. Noise levels can be reduced by one third to one half with this evergreen barrier. Landscape Architects use this method of privacy screening for commercial properties, however, a smaller version is adaptable to a private residence, given there is adequate space.

Soil conditions and freeze zone requirements must be considered before selecting trees. Fast growing trees usually have a shorter lifespan of 15 to 20 years as compared to slow growing trees that can live 100 years or more.

Privacy Hedge Shrubs

There are a few shrubs that do not lose complete foliage in the winter months. The American Holly is a widely favored hedge shrub. The Red Tip Photenia shrub makes a dense privacy shrub with little or no trimming. It will grow up to 12′ tall and retains its deep green leaves all winter. New growth comes in with bright red leaves and adds color to the landscape.

The Chinese Privet grows up to 8′ high and 8′ wide with variegated silver and white leaves. This plant thins foliage during winter months, but will not completely drop all leaves.

The American Cranberry grows up to 12′ tall and 10′ wide with berries for the birds. It creates a dense hedge during the growing period, but loses all foliage during the winter months.

The Red Twig Dogwood, planted in groupings, grow to 8′ tall. When the leaves do fall during the winter, the red trunks are a stark contrast to the winter landscape.

Trellises and Climbers as Fast Growing Privacy Hedges

In most urban properties, space is limited. A trellis with a climbing vine is the best solution for privacy. A trellis/fence combination will give quicker coverage than any tree and it will never get taller. It is possible to obtain faster results with less expense and have adequate coverage with flowers. This solution works extremely well in the south where vines such as the bougainvillea blooms year round. Other plants, such as roses, wisteria, honeysuckle or clematis, will lose leaves in the winter months, but produce dense enough vines for screening views and blocking some noise level.

Privacy Hedges Create a Legal Issue

Trees and hedge shrubs grow over time. Neighbors might object to trees and shrubs blocking sunlight on adjoining property. Lack of maintenance can allow encroachment on properties and fences, so to avoid future controversy, communicate with other property owners before installing a privacy hedge.

One disadvantage to privacy trees or shrubs is, burglars love them. A good security system, if not already in place, might be considered. For additional information on legal issues of privacy fencing and hedges see here.

Plants are expensive and work can be laborious. A local Landscape Architect or nursery will be glad to help determine the best plants for a particular soil and zone. The services they provide can be invaluable to a homeowner.