How to create more privacy on your property

An inviting backyard can serve as a welcome retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. After a long day at the office or an exhausting day transporting kids to and fro, it’s hard to resist the allure of a peaceful outdoor space to unwind.

Privacy is a vital component of any backyard oasis. Some homes may be so remote that privacy isn’t an issue. But many suburban homeowners recognize they might need to tweak their landscapes if they hope to create a private oasis outside.

Fencing or planting?Most homeowners looking to create more privacy on their property must choose between fencing and planting. Fencing provides immediate privacy because once installed, no one can see into the yard. Fencing also doesn’t require watering or other immediate upkeep, which will be necessary when planting to ensure tree roots can establish themselves.

But planting has its benefits as well. Planting for privacy creates a living fence that can grow over time and provide even more privacy as trees mature. Plants also tend to be less costly than fencing. The home renovation experts at BobVila.com estimate that fencing projects typically cost between $1,667 and $4,075. However, fencing projects can cost considerably more than $4,000, especially for homeowners with large properties they want to enclose. Large, mature trees can be expensive, though they will likely cost as much as fencing. In addition, fencing requires more maintenance and potentially needs to be replaced, while native trees won’t require much upkeep and can last for generations.

PlantingHomeowners who choose to plant for privacy must decide which type of plants to add to their properties. Evergreens provide year-round privacy because they don’t shed their leaves, so these are the ones most often chosen when creating a living fence. Several varieties of evergreen trees can do the job, but it’s vital that homeowners consult with a landscape architect before choosing trees so they can ensure the trees will thrive when faced with the growing conditions on their properties. During such a consultation, homeowners may discuss the following popular privacy trees.

Leyland cypress: The Arbor Day Foundation® notes that the Leyland cypress is popular for hedges and boundaries. This is likely because a typical tree reaches a mature height of 60’-70’ and can spread as wide as 25’. The Leyland cypress grows fast, which may appeal to homeowners who don’t want to wait to establish privacy.Green Giant Arborvitae: There are different varieties of arborvitae, but the Green Giant tends to be the go-to option for privacy. The ADF notes that Green Giants will grow up to three feet per year until they reach maturity, providing a fast-growing option for privacy planters. At maturity, the Green Giant can spread as wide as 20 feet, which is another attribute that makes it so popular among homeowners desiring privacy.Eastern White Pine: The ADF notes that the eastern white pine, which can reach heights as high as 80 feet, is favored in spacious yards. That’s likely due to its height and potential spread, which can reach 40 feet. Homeowners who choose the eastern white pine might like its resemblance to a Christmas tree, which is widely used for that purpose. The privacy the eastern white pine provides is significant, but it might be best suited to especially large properties.