Top 11 Fast Growing Privacy Trees Along Fence
Ever feel like your nosy neighbor knows more about your weekend plans than your best friend does? No judgment—it’s hard to sip coffee in your backyard with prying eyes peeking over. The solution? A natural privacy screen that grows as fast as your need for peace and quiet! Privacy trees can shield your yard effectively while adding beauty and greenery to your outdoor space.
Below, we’ve rounded up the top 11 fast-growing privacy trees that will transform your fence line into a secret garden in no time. Whether you live in a windy rural area or a snug urban neighborhood, there’s a perfect tree for everyone.
1. Leyland Cypress
The Leyland Cypress is practically the Beyoncé of privacy trees—it’s loved by so many and never fails to impress. Known for its rapid growth rate of 3-5 feet per year, this tree makes an ideal privacy screen along fences.
Why It’s a Winner
With its dense, feathery texture and towering height (up to 70 feet tall), the Leyland Cypress provides unbeatable coverage. A family in Georgia used this resilient evergreen to line their fence and block out nearby traffic, creating a peaceful backyard retreat.
Best Conditions
- Thrives in zones 6-10
- Prefers full sun
- Drought-tolerant once established
2. Thuja Green Giant
You’ve got to respect a tree named “Green Giant.” This hybrid Cypress tree is a top choice for privacy due to its lush foliage and growth rate of up to 3 feet a year. Plus, it’s virtually maintenance-free.
Real-Life Success
A homeowner in Virginia planted Green Giants along their 200-foot property line. Within three years, their once-exposed yard became a lush, private sanctuary.
Key Features
- Resistant to pests and diseases
- Thrives in zones 5-9
- Handles wind and snow like a champ
3. Eastern Red Cedar
If you’re looking for privacy and a touch of rustic charm, the Eastern Red Cedar is a fantastic option. This hardy evergreen can thrive in various climates while offering year-round coverage.
Fun Fact
Its fragrant wood is also prized for repelling moths—bonus points if you’re adding cedar-themed decor to your garden shed.
Best Fit For
- Windy climates
- Zones 2-9
- Those who love durable, low-maintenance trees
4. Bamboo Screens
Before you object, yes, bamboo is technically a grass, not a tree—but its rapid growth makes it unbeatable for natural privacy. Certain clumping varieties can grow up to 5 feet per year, creating thick green walls faster than you can say “privacy, please.”
Quick Note
Stick to clumping bamboo rather than running bamboo—unless you want it to take over your yard.
Best Used For
- Tropical or subtropical climates
- Modern outdoor designs
5. Silver Maple
The Silver Maple marries stunning good looks with swift growth. These deciduous trees sprout up to 2 feet per year, creating a leafy screen during spring and summer.
Case Study
A gardener in the Midwest planted Silver Maples along their cyclone fence, adding shade and privacy without heavy upkeep.
Hardiness
- Excels in zones 3-9
- Tolerates wet soil
6. Italian Cypress
Want your privacy trees to look as posh as a Mediterranean resort? The Italian Cypress offers a tall and narrow profile, quickly growing 2-3 feet annually to enhance your yard’s elegance and exclusivity.
Perfect For
- Urban areas where space is tight
- Zones 7-10
- Adding architectural style to your landscape
7. Arborvitae
This garden staple is beloved for its soft texture and evergreen foliage. Its varieties—such as the Emerald Green Arborvitae—grow up to 2 feet per year, making them fantastic for property lines.
Pro Tip
Arborvitae works exceptionally well in smaller yards where you need privacy without using giant trees.
Ideal Growing Zones
- Zones 3-7
8. Willow Hybrid
For people who need ultra-fast privacy, the Willow Hybrid may be your answer. With growth rates upwards of 6 feet per year, it’s the Usain Bolt of privacy trees! These deciduous trees are not only impressive but also adaptable to varying soil types.
Highlight
A family in Minnesota planted these around their backyard pool and saw impressive coverage within two seasons.
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9. Cryptomeria (Japanese Cedar)
The Cryptomeria has eye-catching foliage that transitions from bright green in warmer months to a cozy bronze during winter. Growing 3 feet per year, it promises elegance and seclusion for your yard.
10. American Holly
Want year-round privacy with a pop of color? The American Holly fits the bill. Its prickly leaves make it tough for intruders (wild or otherwise) to get through while its bright red berries bring festive cheer.
Best For
- Southern climates (zones 5-9)
- Beauty-conscious gardeners
11. Wax Myrtle
This fast-growing shrub/tree hybrid is ideal for coastal regions. Wax Myrtle grows up to 5 feet annually under the right conditions, offers excellent salt tolerance, and wears deep green leaves year-round.
Wrapping It Up
Fast-growing privacy trees are your ultimate solution for creating a sanctuary away from prying eyes, noisy streets, or dust-filled winds. From the versatile Leyland Cypress to the natural elegance of Italian Cypress, there’s a tree to suit every yard, climate, and aesthetic. Which one will you plant first? Grab your gardening gloves—your private oasis awaits!
FAQs About Fast-Growing Privacy Trees
How fast can privacy trees grow?
Several options like the Leyland Cypress or Willow Hybrid grow 3-6 feet per year, making them excellent for quick privacy.
What are the best trees for privacy in windy areas?
Eastern Red Cedar and Arborvitae work well in wind-prone regions due to their sturdy growth habits.
Can I plant privacy trees near my house or fence?
Yes, but ensure there’s enough space between the tree and structures to avoid root damage. Most Arborvitae and smaller trees thrive with minimal room.
How do I care for fast-growers?
Water them regularly in the first year, apply mulch to retain soil moisture, and prune carefully to maintain shape while preventing overgrowth.
