Creating a private, tranquil backyard space is a priority for many homeowners.
One of the best ways to achieve this is by planting a natural screen of privacy plants. Not only do these plants provide seclusion, but they also add beauty and greenery to your garden. H
ere are ten of the best plants to grow for backyard privacy.
1. Boxwood
Boxwood is a classic hedge plant with small, glossy leaves and a compact growth habit. It is ideal for formal gardens and privacy screens.
Benefits:
- Dense foliage for effective screening.
- Can be shaped into hedges, topiaries, or natural forms.
- Tolerates shade and different soil types.
Planting Tips:
- Space plants 2-3 feet apart for a thick hedge.
- Prune regularly to maintain desired shape.
- Mulch around the base to retain moisture.
2. Bamboo
Bamboo is known for its rapid growth and tall, slender stalks. It creates a tropical look and is perfect for quick privacy.
Benefits:
- Grows quickly, providing fast privacy.
- Can reach heights of 20 feet or more.
- Adds a unique, exotic aesthetic to the garden.
Planting Tips:
- Choose clumping varieties to avoid invasive spread.
- Plant in well-drained soil with plenty of sunlight.
- Install a root barrier if using running bamboo to control growth.
3. Privet
Privet is a fast-growing shrub that forms a dense, leafy barrier. It is commonly used for privacy hedges due to its rapid growth and easy maintenance.
Benefits:
- Quick growth provides fast privacy.
- Dense foliage blocks views effectively.
- Adaptable to various soil types and conditions.
Planting Tips:
- Space plants 2-3 feet apart for a thick hedge.
- Prune regularly to maintain height and shape.
- Water deeply during the first year to establish roots.
4. Arborvitae
Arborvitae is a popular choice for privacy hedges due to its dense foliage and fast growth. It can be shaped and trimmed to create a uniform barrier.
Benefits:
- Evergreen foliage provides year-round privacy.
- Tolerates a variety of soil conditions.
- Low maintenance and pest-resistant.
Planting Tips:
- Space plants 3-4 feet apart for a dense hedge.
- Water regularly during the first year to establish roots.
- Prune annually to maintain shape.
5. Red Twig Dogwood
Red Twig Dogwood is a deciduous shrub known for its striking red stems in winter. It adds color and privacy to your garden.
Benefits:
- Vibrant red stems provide winter interest.
- Tolerates wet soil and partial shade.
- Can be used for hedges or mass plantings.
Planting Tips:
- Space plants 3-4 feet apart.
- Prune in early spring to encourage new growth and maintain shape.
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
6. Holly (Ilex spp.)
Holly bushes are evergreen with spiky leaves and bright red berries. They provide excellent privacy and add seasonal interest.
Benefits:
- Evergreen leaves offer year-round coverage.
- Attractive berries add color and wildlife interest.
- Drought-tolerant once established.
Planting Tips:
- Space plants 4-6 feet apart for a dense hedge.
- Plant in well-drained soil with full to partial sun.
- Prune in late winter to shape and control growth.
7. Leyland Cypress (Cupressus × leylandii)
Leyland Cypress is a fast-growing evergreen tree that can reach great heights. It is ideal for creating a tall privacy screen.
Benefits:
- Rapid growth provides quick privacy.
- Evergreen foliage offers year-round coverage.
- Tolerates poor soil and harsh conditions.
Planting Tips:
- Space trees 6-10 feet apart for a dense screen.
- Water regularly during the first year.
- Prune to control height and shape as needed.
8. Cherry Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus)
Cherry Laurel is an evergreen shrub with glossy leaves and white flowers in spring. It forms a dense hedge ideal for privacy.
Benefits:
- Thick, evergreen foliage for year-round privacy.
- Fragrant flowers add seasonal interest.
- Tolerates shade and different soil types.
Planting Tips:
- Space plants 3-4 feet apart for a dense hedge.
- Prune after flowering to maintain shape.
- Mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
9. Bamboo Muhly (Muhlenbergia dumosa)
Bamboo Muhly is an ornamental grass with delicate, airy foliage. It adds texture and privacy to your garden.
Benefits:
- Fast-growing with a unique appearance.
- Tolerates drought and poor soil.
- Adds movement and texture to the garden.
Planting Tips:
- Plant in full sun with well-drained soil.
- Space plants 3-4 feet apart for a thick stand.
- Cut back in late winter to promote new growth.
10. Eleagnus (Elaeagnus x ebbingei)
Eleagnus is a hardy evergreen shrub with silvery-green leaves. It forms a dense hedge that provides excellent privacy.
Benefits:
- Evergreen foliage offers year-round coverage.
- Fragrant flowers and edible berries.
- Tolerates salt, drought, and poor soil.
Planting Tips:
- Space plants 4-5 feet apart for a dense hedge.
- Prune regularly to maintain height and shape.
- Mulch to retain moisture and improve soil quality.
Creating a private oasis in your backyard is easy with the right selection of privacy plants.
Whether you prefer the fast growth of bamboo or the year-round coverage of evergreens like arborvitae and holly, there’s a plant to suit every garden style and need.
By choosing the best plants for your space and caring for them properly, you can enjoy a beautiful, private retreat in your own backyard.
