Trees That Give Privacy

Leyland cypress

• The leyland cypress (Cupressocyparis leylandii) is one of the fastest growing hedge plants. The leyland cypress grows 3 to 4 feet per year and attains a height of 25 to 30 feet with an 8- to 10-foot spread. Leyland cypress is an evergreen that grows in the pyramid shape. This tree is extremely low maintenance. This is one hedge you can plant and not have to prune to keep it looking neat. You don't have to do anything with the soil, as the trees adapt to almost any soil type or condition. Plant this tree in full sun or shade and once it is established, you don't have to keep watering it as it is drought tolerant. The leyland cypress has a thick, sturdy trunk, making it an effective wind break. This hedge will provide privacy all year long and because it is an evergreen, it never looses its leaves. The leyland cypress is hardy in zones 6 through 10. If you plant the trees less than 15 feet apart, the middle may brown-out.

Thuja Green Giant Evergreen

• Thuja green giant evergreen is another easy-to-maintain evergreen, and when planted in a hedge it will give your yard privacy. This evergreen requires no pruning or trimming because it grows in the pyramid shape. Every year, the thuja green giant evergreen grows 3 to 5 feet until it reaches its full height of 30 to 40 feet with a spread that is half as wide. This tree is extremely hardy and disease and pest resistant. If you live where deer are prevalent, they won't bother this tree. The thuja green giant evergreen has a wonderful scent, so your yard will smell clean and fresh. The tree turns bronze during the winter months, but turns green again in the spring.

Dynamite Crape Myrtle

• Dynamite Crape Myrtle adds color to the borders of your yard. The dynamite crape myrtle has majestic red blooms that continue throughout the summer months until fall. This tree was available only to high-end homes or commercial properties, but now it is available for everyone to buy and enjoy. The full height of the dynamite crape myrtle is 20 to 30 feet with a 15-foot spread. This tree grows well in full sun to partial shade. The dynamite crape myrtle makes a wonderful privacy hedge because it adapts to almost any soil and weather condition. Grow this tree in zones 7 through 9.