Besides artivitas, what can I plant for privacy on the fence line?

Monique Bay
by Monique Bay
a few years ago we had a huge ice storm that killed the bushes/trees that aligned our back fence for privacy and some shade. Now, I’m wanting to plan/ landscape my back yard, but I have NO clue on what or how to go about any of this without hiring an expensive consultant. Anything, ideas, plans.... your help is needed.. I do not have a green thumb.

  4 answers
  • Ellis Ellis on Feb 13, 2018

    You don't say where you live. Become familiar with what your planting zone is, perhaps do some internet research, or get some garden books from the library. Get ideas from those sources as to what you like the looks of. Arborvitaes are a problem in cold climates because they are multi-stemmed, and split when weighed down by ice and snow. I have some, and I tie them together at the top, encircling them with green twine every fall to prevent this. But if the plant gets too tall, that won't work.


    One word of advice: believe the books and plant labels when they tell you the ultimate size of a shrub or tree, and plant accordingly. It will look a bit bare at first, but in the long run, as they grow, your plants will look better with room to breathe. And you won't be having to prune your plants all the time to keep them small.


    Free advice is available from your local Cooperative Extension, and many good nurseries are happy to give advice to prospective customers.

  • Johnavallance82 Johnavallance82 on Feb 13, 2018

    Cover fence with mesh. and or Bamboo

  • 2dogal 2dogal on Feb 13, 2018

    It sure would help if we knew your location or better yet, your growing zone.

  • Imh30172342 Imh30172342 on Feb 14, 2018

    I have used Leland Cypress in both NC and NY for the same situation They are hardy and fast growing. Got them at Cosco in both locations