Landscaping With Privacy in Mind: Best Tree and Shrub Combos

Key Takeaways:

• Pick fast-growing trees like Green Giant Arborvitae or Leyland Cypress for quick privacy. They block views and noise without needing a fence.
• Mix trees and shrubs for full coverage. Tall trees in the back, medium shrubs in the middle, and smaller plants up front make the best privacy screen.
• Evergreens stay green all year, but deciduous plants add seasonal color. A mix of both keeps your yard private and pretty in every season.
• Space plants are right so they grow thick and healthy. Crowding can slow them down or make them weak.
• Layering works best. Start with big trees, add shrubs, and then fill gaps with smaller plants for a natural screen that looks great.

Ever sat in your backyard, sipping coffee, only to lock eyes with a neighbor or hear every word of their phone call? Yeah, not exactly relaxing. If you’re dreaming of a peaceful outdoor space where you can unwind without feeling like you’re on display, the right privacy plants can make all the difference.

The trick? Picking the right mix of trees for privacy and shrubs that grow tall, thick, and fast. And no, you don’t need a giant fence—just smart hedge landscaping and smart layering plants to create a natural screen. Let’s break it down.

Why Go for Trees and Shrubs Over Fences?

Fences are great, but they can feel a little… stiff. Trees and shrubs, on the other hand, give you privacy and beauty. They block noise, soften harsh winds, and even attract birds and butterflies. Plus, a well-planned privacy screen looks way more inviting than a plain wooden wall.

If you’re working with partial shade, don’t worry—many evergreen shrubs and woody plants thrive without full sun. And if you’re dealing with different soil types, there are drought-tolerant options that won’t give you a headache.

Best Trees for Privacy

Some trees grow faster and thicker than others, making them excellent choices for blocking views. Here are a few of our top picks:

Green Giant Arborvitae

If you need a dense screen fast, this is your guy. The Green Giant grows up to 3 feet per year and can reach 50-60 feet tall. Its green foliage stays lush year-round, making it a popular choice for privacy hedges. Plus, it’s low-maintenance and handles most soil types like a champ.

Leyland Cypress

Another speedy grower, the Leyland Cypress, shoots up 3-4 feet per year. It forms a thick, dense hedge that’s perfect for blocking wind and noise. Just keep in mind—it needs space. Plant these about 8-10 feet apart unless you want a formal hedge (then go tighter).

Emerald Green Arborvitae

Smaller than the Green Giant, the Emerald Greens are perfect if you want a neat, compact look. They grow about a foot per year and max out around 15 feet. Their slim shape makes them great for tight spaces, and their evergreen nature means privacy all year.

Best Shrubs to Layer with Trees

Trees give height, but shrubs fill in the gaps, creating a fuller privacy screen. Here are some of the best plants for privacy:

Boxwood

A classic for a reason. Boxwoods are tough, easy to shape, and work well as a formal hedge or mixed in with taller trees. They grow slowly but stay dense, making them great for low borders or layered privacy.

Privet

If you want fast coverage, privet shrubs grow quickly and can be trimmed into a tight, dense hedge. Some varieties even have white flowers in late spring, adding a little extra beauty.

Holly

For year-round color and privacy, holly shrubs are a solid pick. Their dense foliage and sharp leaves keep unwanted visitors (both human and animal) at bay. Some types even produce berries, adding winter interest.

Layering Plants for Maximum Privacy

Want your outdoor space to feel like a hidden oasis? Simple layering is the way to go. Here’s how:

1. Tall Trees at the Back – Start with your big guys like Green Giant or Leyland Cypress as your main privacy screen.
2. Medium Shrubs in the Middle – Add evergreen shrubs like boxwood or holly to fill in gaps.
3. Smaller Plants Up Front – Ornamental grasses or flowering shrubs add depth without blocking the view from inside your home.

This professional landscape design trick makes your yard feel bigger while keeping it private.

Extra Tips for a Perfect Privacy Landscape

• Spacing Matters – Crowding plants can stunt growth. Follow spacing guidelines for each type.
• Mix Evergreen and Deciduous – Evergreen trees keep you covered in winter, while deciduous shrubs add seasonal interest.
• Think Long-Term – Some plants spread via parent plant roots or air layering. Plan for their mature size so they don’t take over.

Need Help Creating Your Private Oasis? We’ve Got You!

A well-planned landscape with the right trees for privacy and privacy plants can turn your yard into a quiet retreat. Whether you go for towering Green Giants, sleek Emerald Greens, or a mix of shrubs, the key is layering plants for full coverage.

And hey, if all this sounds like a lot of work, we get it. At Signature Landscape, we specialize in professional landscape design that’s tailored to your space. Whether you need a dense hedge, a natural screen, or just some advice on the best plants for privacy, we’ve got you covered.
Ready to make your backyard your own private escape? Let’s chat! Check out our services at Signature Landscape and let’s bring your vision to life.