What is the Best Cover Tree to Plant for Privacy?

Creating privacy in your backyard is essential to making it a comfortable and enjoyable space. One simple solution to create privacy is by planting trees. However, the type of tree you choose can make a significant difference in how well it functions as a privacy screen.

Factors to Consider When Choosing a Cover Tree for Privacy

Several factors can influence your decision when choosing the right cover tree for privacy:

Height: You want to choose a tree species with a height that will provide enough privacy in the area you want to screen. Taller trees work best for two-story homes or areas where you need a higher level of privacy.

Density: Trees with dense foliage offer more privacy than those with sparse canopies. Pay attention to the spacing between branches when choosing a tree for privacy.

Speed of Growth: Fast-growing trees can provide more immediate privacy, but you must choose the right species because some fast-growing trees are susceptible to various diseases.

Hardiness: Select a tree species that is hardy in your area, so it can withstand the climate in your region and remains healthy.

Top Cover Trees for Privacy

The following trees are well-known for their suitability as cover trees for privacy:

1. American Arborvitae

American Arborvitae is an evergreen tree that grows up to 60 feet tall and has a dense, dark green canopy. It is an excellent tree for creating privacy screens and hedges because it is highly tolerant of harsh weather conditions, insects, and diseases. Moreover, it grows at a moderate rate of about 1-2 feet per year, meaning you can expect privacy within a few years of planting.

2. Leyland Cypress

Leyland cypress trees are evergreen trees with foliage that starts light blue-green and fades to dark green. They grow very fast, with an average growth rate of about 3-4 feet per year, and have a height of 50-70 feet. Leyland cypress trees can create dense privacy screens in a few years and are highly tolerant of drought and extreme temperatures.

3. Eastern Red Cedar

Eastern Red Cedar is an evergreen tree that can grow up to 50 feet, with a spread of around 8-20 feet. It is an excellent tree for creating privacy screens because it is highly tolerant of heat, drought, and extreme weather conditions. Moreover, this tree is easy to maintain, as it does not require frequent pruning.

4. Green Giant Arborvitae

Green Giant Arborvitae is a fast-growing evergreen tree that can grow up to 60 feet tall and 10-15 feet wide. It has dense foliage, making it an excellent screen tree for privacy purposes. It grows an impressive 3-5 feet per year and is resistant to most pests and diseases. Moreover, it is highly tolerant of extreme temperatures and drought, making it a suitable tree for most regions.

The Bottom Line

Choosing the right cover tree for privacy depends on your specific needs and preferences. The trees mentioned above are some of the most commonly planted trees for privacy, and they are highly suitable for most regions. When selecting the best tree, ensure that it is hardy, fast-growing, dense, and tall enough to provide the privacy needed. By planting the right tree, you can enjoy a comfortable and private backyard for years to come.