10 Fast Growing Privacy Shrubs To Create Your Perfect Backyard Oasis
Are you tired of nosy neighbors peeking into your yard or feeling exposed in your outdoor space? You're not alone. Many homeowners dream of creating a private sanctuary where they can relax without feeling like they're on display. That's where fast growing privacy shrubs come to the rescue! These versatile plants offer a quick and natural solution to block unwanted views, reduce noise, and create a cozy atmosphere in your backyard.
But with so many options available, how do you choose the right shrubs for your specific needs? In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the top 10 fast growing privacy shrubs that can transform your outdoor space in no time. Whether you're looking for year-round coverage or seasonal interest, we've got you covered. Let's dive in and discover the perfect shrubs to create your personal paradise!
1. Arborvitae (Thuja occidentalis)
Arborvitae, also known as Thuja occidentalis, is a popular choice for creating living privacy screens. These evergreen shrubs are prized for their rapid growth rate, often adding 2-3 feet per year under ideal conditions. Arborvitae can reach heights of 10-15 feet tall and 3-4 feet wide, making them perfect for creating a dense, green wall.
One of the main advantages of arborvitae is their ability to thrive in various soil types and their resistance to pests and diseases. They're also relatively low-maintenance, requiring only occasional pruning to maintain their shape. For best results, plant arborvitae in full sun to partial shade, spacing them 2-3 feet apart to create a solid hedge.
2. Leyland Cypress (x Cupressocyparis leylandii)
If you're looking for an even faster-growing option, Leyland cypress might be your answer. This hybrid evergreen can grow up to 3-4 feet per year, quickly reaching heights of 50-70 feet tall. While it can be pruned to maintain a more manageable size, its rapid growth makes it ideal for creating tall privacy screens in a short amount of time.
Leyland cypress thrives in full sun and well-drained soil. It's important to note that this shrub can be susceptible to disease in areas with high humidity, so it may not be the best choice for all regions. When planting Leyland cypress, space them 6-10 feet apart to allow for proper air circulation and growth.
3. Privet (Ligustrum spp.)
Privet is a classic choice for creating formal hedges and privacy screens. This deciduous or evergreen shrub (depending on the species) can grow 2-3 feet per year and reaches heights of 10-15 feet tall. Privet is known for its dense foliage, making it excellent for blocking views and reducing noise.
One of the benefits of privet is its ability to tolerate a wide range of soil conditions and its resistance to deer browsing. However, it's worth noting that some privet species can be invasive in certain areas, so be sure to check with your local extension office before planting. For a lush, full hedge, plant privet 2-3 feet apart and prune regularly to maintain the desired shape.
4. Bamboo (Bambusoideae)
For a truly unique and fast-growing privacy screen, consider bamboo. Some bamboo species can grow up to 3 feet per day, making them one of the fastest-growing plants on earth! However, it's crucial to choose a clumping variety rather than a running type to prevent the bamboo from spreading uncontrollably.
Bamboo can create a striking visual barrier, reaching heights of 20-30 feet tall. It's important to note that bamboo is not a true shrub but rather a grass, so it may require different care than traditional shrubs. Plant bamboo in full sun to partial shade and provide regular water and fertilization for optimal growth.
5. Photinia (Photinia x fraseri)
Photinia is an attractive evergreen shrub known for its striking red new growth that matures to glossy green leaves. This fast-growing shrub can add 2-3 feet per year and reaches heights of 10-15 feet tall, making it an excellent choice for privacy screens.
One of the unique features of photinia is its ability to produce small white flowers in spring, followed by red berries that attract birds. This shrub thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. For a dense hedge, plant photinia 3-4 feet apart and prune regularly to encourage new growth and maintain the desired shape.
6. Wax Myrtle (Morella cerifera)
Wax myrtle is a versatile evergreen shrub that can grow up to 3 feet per year, reaching heights of 15-20 feet tall. This native plant is well-adapted to various soil types and can tolerate both drought and salt spray, making it an excellent choice for coastal areas.
One of the benefits of wax myrtle is its ability to attract wildlife, including birds and butterflies, to your garden. The shrub produces small, waxy berries that are a food source for many bird species. Plant wax myrtle in full sun to partial shade, spacing them 5-6 feet apart for a solid privacy screen.
7. Red Twig Dogwood (Cornus sericea)
For year-round interest and fast growth, consider the red twig dogwood. This deciduous shrub can grow 2-3 feet per year and reaches heights of 6-9 feet tall. While it loses its leaves in winter, the bright red stems provide striking winter interest.
Red twig dogwood thrives in moist soil and can even tolerate occasional flooding, making it an excellent choice for areas with poor drainage. The shrub also produces clusters of white flowers in spring, followed by white berries that attract birds. Plant red twig dogwood 3-4 feet apart for a dense privacy screen.
8. Mock Orange (Philadelphus spp.)
Mock orange is a fast-growing deciduous shrub that can add 2-3 feet per year and reaches heights of 6-10 feet tall. This shrub is prized for its fragrant white flowers that bloom in late spring or early summer, filling your garden with a sweet citrus scent.
Mock orange thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. While it loses its leaves in winter, the dense branching structure still provides some privacy. Plant mock orange 3-4 feet apart and prune after flowering to maintain shape and encourage new growth.
9. Cherry Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus)
Cherry laurel, also known as English laurel, is a fast-growing evergreen shrub that can add 2-3 feet per year and reaches heights of 15-20 feet tall. This dense shrub is excellent for creating a solid privacy screen and can tolerate heavy pruning if you prefer a more formal look.
Cherry laurel produces small white flowers in spring, followed by black berries that attract birds. However, it's important to note that all parts of the plant are toxic if ingested, so it may not be the best choice for gardens with pets or small children. Plant cherry laurel 4-5 feet apart in full sun to partial shade for optimal growth.
10. Viburnum (Viburnum spp.)
Viburnum is a diverse genus of shrubs that includes both evergreen and deciduous varieties, many of which are fast-growing and excellent for privacy screens. Depending on the species, viburnum can grow 1-2 feet per year and reaches heights of 6-20 feet tall.
One of the benefits of viburnum is its ability to produce fragrant flowers and colorful berries that attract wildlife to your garden. Viburnum thrives in full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. Plant viburnum 3-5 feet apart, depending on the mature size of the specific variety you choose.
Conclusion
Creating a private outdoor space doesn't have to take years of waiting for slow-growing plants to mature. With these fast growing privacy shrubs, you can quickly establish a beautiful and functional barrier in your yard. From the rapid growth of bamboo and Leyland cypress to the year-round interest of photinia and wax myrtle, there's a perfect option for every garden and climate.
Remember to consider factors such as your local climate, soil conditions, and maintenance requirements when choosing the right shrubs for your privacy screen. By selecting the appropriate plants and providing proper care, you'll be enjoying your secluded backyard oasis in no time. So why wait? Start planning your privacy screen today and transform your outdoor space into the peaceful retreat you've always dreamed of!
