Want Privacy Fast? These Shrubs Grow Like Crazy

Want Privacy Fast? These Shrubs Grow Like Crazy

Want Privacy Fast? These Shrubs Grow Like Crazy

You know that awkward feeling when your neighbors’ kitchen window stares directly into your backyard? Yeah, I’ve been there. Sometimes you just want to enjoy your space without putting on a show — and that’s where fast growing privacy shrubs come in.

These aren’t your grandma’s slow-growing hedges. I’m talking about thick, leafy green walls that shoot up fast and give you the peace and privacy you’re craving without needing to build a fence or wait for years.

If you’ve been thinking about adding shrubs for privacy but don’t want to wait forever, let’s dig into the best options you can plant right now that’ll grow like wild and look great doing it.

Why Go with Shrubs for Privacy?

Sure, fences work — but they’re expensive, require maintenance, and don’t always look great. On the flip side, privacy shrubs:

  1. Add greenery and beauty
  2. Act as a sound barrier
  3. Attract birds and pollinators
  4. Can grow tall and thick fast
  5. Are often cheaper than fencing long-term

Plus, once you plant the right shrubs, they’ll only get better with time.

Check out our full guide on fast privacy plants if you want even more options beyond shrubs:
👉🏼 Backyard Privacy Plants That Actually Work (Fast!)

1. Arborvitae (Thuja Green Giant)

Let’s start with the king of fast-growing privacy shrubs. Arborvitae — especially the ‘Green Giant’ variety — grows up to 3 feet per year.

They grow tall, narrow, and thick. Perfect for lining a fence or property border. Plus, they’re evergreen, so your privacy lasts all year.

Why it’s great:

  • Grows fast
  • Low maintenance
  • Looks clean and uniform
  • Deer-resistant

2. Privet Shrubs

If you’re looking for a classic hedge-style shrub, privet is your go-to. It’s easy to shape, grows fast, and can handle hard pruning.

Why it’s great:

  • Grows up to 2-3 feet per year
  • Forms dense screens
  • Can be shaped into any form
  • Thrives in many soil types

Pro tip: Once established, trim regularly to keep it looking sharp.

3. Bamboo (Clumping Type Only!)

Okay, I know — bamboo can be invasive. But if you go with the clumping variety, you get super fast growth without it taking over your yard.

In the right conditions, it can grow several feet in just one season, and the lush green stalks are beautiful and totally block prying eyes.

👉🏼 Want to compare bamboo to other fast options? We break it all down in this DIY plant breakdown:
Privacy Plants That Grow Fast and Actually Work

4. Wax Myrtle

This one’s a hidden gem. Wax myrtles grow fast, smell great, and have a unique look with their glossy, aromatic leaves.

Why it’s great:

  • Can grow 3-5 feet in a year
  • Grows in poor soil
  • Drought-tolerant
  • Easy to prune and shape

5. Red Tip Photinia

Want something with color and privacy? Red Tip Photinia puts on a show with bright red new growth that turns green as it matures. It’s an awesome mix of visual appeal and quick growth.

Why it’s great:

  • Fast growth
  • Bold red/green foliage
  • Can grow up to 15 feet tall
  • Forms a dense screen with minimal gaps

Where Should You Plant Them for Maximum Privacy?

When it comes to shrubs for privacy fence lines, spacing is everything. If the plant tag says space them 6 feet apart… go 4. That’s how you get that dense, seamless green wall faster.

Also consider planting in staggered rows if you want double the coverage without waiting years.

How to Care for Your Privacy Shrubs

Even the fastest growing privacy shrubs need a little TLC to get started:

  • Water regularly the first year
  • Mulch around the base to hold moisture
  • Feed with a balanced shrub fertilizer in spring
  • Trim lightly to encourage bushier growth
  • Protect from heavy snow loads in the winter (especially arborvitae)

Want More Ideas That Work in Real Life?

There’s a ton of online advice that sounds good on paper but doesn’t hold up in your actual yard. That’s why I put together this practical, real-world guide that walks you through which backyard privacy plants actually work — based on real experience and fast results.

👉🏼 Check Out Our DIY Privacy Plant Guide Here

Whether you’re looking for shrubs, trees, vines, or a combo, it’ll help you decide what to plant for instant (and lasting) privacy.

Your Backyard Doesn’t Have to Feel Exposed

I get it. You want to enjoy your backyard, your morning coffee, your hot tub — without your neighbors having front row seats. And with the right fast growing privacy shrubs, you can have that sense of peace sooner than you think.

Don’t settle for staring at a fence or waiting years for coverage. Choose the right shrubs, space them smartly, and start building your natural green wall now.

👉🏼 Start With the Best Shrubs for Privacy Right Here — your future self (and your peace of mind) will thank you.



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