Backyard Privacy Plants That Actually Work (Fast!)

Why Backyard Privacy Matters More Than Ever

Let me tell you—after years of living on a corner lot with zero privacy, I knew I had to do something besides wave awkwardly at every dog-walker passing by my patio. Fences are fine, but they don’t always give off the peaceful, natural vibe I wanted for my backyard. That’s when I started diving into backyard privacy plants—and let me tell you, it changed the whole feel of my yard.

There’s something special about creating your own little green sanctuary. Whether you’re sipping coffee in your robe or letting the kids run around, privacy just makes everything more comfortable. And honestly, using plants to create privacy just feels like the smarter, prettier, longer-lasting route compared to building walls of wood or vinyl.

Now, if you’re really serious about protecting your space, I’m a big fan of pairing plants with smart gear. When we installed our own wireless security camera system with remote viewing, it felt like the final puzzle piece. You get beauty and peace of mind—all in one.

Fast Growing Plants That Give You Privacy Fast

I’m not the most patient gardener, so if you’re anything like me, you want privacy plants that grow fast—not in 5 years, but now-ish. Some plants take their sweet time, but thankfully, there are options out there that actually get to work fast. I’m talkin’ about plants like the Green Giant Arborvitae—these guys are tall, lush, and grow like they’re trying to set a world record.

If you want more variety, check out this whole lineup of fast growing plants we’ve used over the years. From big green screens to flowering hedges, it’s all there. We’ve planted rows along our back fence, and not only do they look great—they also block the view faster than I thought possible.

Trust me, if you’re starting from scratch, these fast growers are your new best friends.

Evergreen Favorites for Year-Round Privacy

I used to think plants went into hibernation mode when winter hit, but then I discovered the beauty of evergreens. These plants stay green no matter the season, which means your backyard stays private—even when everything else looks bare. We’ve got a couple of Emerald Green Arborvitae lining one side of our yard, and they look just as sharp in January as they do in June.

Another solid option? Yew Hicks. These are great for tighter spaces where you still want that rich, green privacy wall without going full jungle mode. If you’re wanting even more ideas, we’ve got a whole collection of evergreen plants that are perfect for low-maintenance, year-round coverage.

Best Shrubs That Do Double Duty

Let me brag on my Boxwood Green Mountain shrubs for a minute—they are tough, good-looking, and surprisingly easy to shape. These guys pull double duty by adding curb appeal and blocking out unwanted views. They’re perfect for creating more “structured” privacy, especially if you’re going for a polished landscape design.

And if you like a splash of color in your green screen, I can’t recommend the Purple Leaf Sand Cherry enough. Those deep purple leaves pop in spring and summer, and it still helps keep your space a little more tucked away. When I planted mine near the porch, it was like instant charm and coverage.

Fast Growing Plants for Instant Privacy

If you’re like me, patience isn’t exactly your strong suit—especially when you feel like your neighbors can see everything you’re doing in your backyard. That’s why I’m a huge fan of fast growing plants. These are your go-to when you want privacy ASAP without waiting five years.

My top pick? The Green Giant Arborvitae. These things are like the superheroes of backyard privacy—tall, thick, and surprisingly low maintenance. We planted a row along our fence, and within a season or two, it already felt like our own little forest wall. If you’re planning a big project, just make sure you plant at the right time so they take root and thrive fast.

Privacy with a Purpose: Screening + Fruit

Privacy plants don’t have to be boring green blocks. You can actually pick something that screens your yard and gives you something back—like fruit! Our American Elderberry bushes do just that. They grow fast, get nice and thick, and you can use the berries to make syrup or jam. That’s a win-win.

We stuck a few of these on the back edge of our yard, and I swear—they’ve outgrown expectations and earned their place. Plus, they’re a hit with the local birds and pollinators. If you want something pretty, productive, and private, you really can’t beat them.

Evergreens That Work All Year Long

When it comes to year-round privacy, nothing beats a solid evergreen. I wanted something that didn’t go bald in the winter and leave my yard feeling exposed. So, I went with a mix of evergreen plants that keep their coverage no matter the season.

Two of my go-to favorites? The Emerald Green Arborvitae and Yew Hicks. The emerald greens stay super compact and tidy, so they’re perfect if you’re working with limited space. Yews, on the other hand, are tough as nails. They’re a great option if you want something classic and easy to shape, and they don’t mind a bit of trimming. Toss these along a driveway or walkway, and boom—instant greenery and privacy, all year.

Beautiful and Functional Shrubs

Privacy doesn’t have to be boring—and if you’re someone who cares about curb appeal like I do, you’ll appreciate this. Boxwood Green Mountain shrubs give you that formal, trimmed-up look without needing constant attention. We’ve got them flanking the walkway, and they honestly make the whole front yard feel polished.

Now, if you want something with a little more pop, try the Purple Leaf Sand Cherry. It has deep reddish-purple leaves and soft pink blooms in the spring—it’s privacy with personality. We planted a couple near our patio, and they really stand out in the best way. Plus, they grow fast enough to earn their spot in a privacy lineup.

Fast Growing Plants That Don’t Make You Wait Forever

I don’t know about you, but I’m not the most patient guy when it comes to plants. I wanted something that would actually give me privacy in a year or two—not five or ten. That’s why I’m a big fan of fast growing plants. These are the ones you plant when you’re serious about blocking nosy neighbors without dragging it out.

The Green Giant Arborvitae is a monster in the best way. These things can grow up to 3 feet a year once they get going. I put a row of them along the back fence, and now we’ve got this living green wall that’s way better than any fence. No HOA complaints, and I get birds nesting in them all the time—double win.

Seasonal Maintenance Tips That Actually Matter

Let’s be real: some folks go all-in planting privacy hedges and then just forget they exist. Don’t be that person. Even low-maintenance plants need some love now and then. One thing I’ve learned the hard way is that watering matters way more in the beginning than people think. If you’re planting something new, check out this guide we wrote on how often to water a new tree. Seriously, it can make or break the plant’s future.

Also, if you’re wondering when’s the best time to plant a tree for privacy, early spring or fall usually gives you the best shot. The roots get a chance to settle in before the heat or frost hits too hard. Timing really is everything.

Year-Round Privacy with Evergreen Champions

One lesson I learned fast—some privacy plants disappear when winter shows up. That’s why evergreens are gold if you want year-round coverage. I’m talking about the plants that don’t flinch when the seasons change. I’ve got a mix of evergreen plants along our driveway, and they’ve held their shape and color even through icy Missouri mornings.

The Emerald Green Arborvitae is a big favorite of mine. It stays dense and upright, which is perfect for tighter spaces or when you don’t want a tree turning into a forest. Plus, the color is rich all year, which makes everything feel more alive—even in the middle of February.

Low Maintenance Options That Don’t Need Babysitting

Look, not everyone has time—or energy—to play full-time plant parent. If you’re like me and prefer your weekends to include as little yard work as possible, then you’ll love the Yew Hicks. These are champs when it comes to hands-off care. They grow in sun or shade, and I barely have to trim them more than once a year.

Another one I swear by is Boxwood Green Mountain. I planted a few in the front yard where we needed a little curb appeal and a lot of quiet. They shape up nicely, stay compact, and don’t scream for attention. Perfect for folks who love the look but not the labor.

Add Color Without Sacrificing Privacy

Privacy doesn’t have to mean boring green walls. I wanted something that gave me both coverage and a splash of color—enter the Purple Leaf Sand Cherry. This beauty adds a deep purple tone that stands out without clashing with the rest of your landscape. In spring, it even bursts into delicate pink flowers. I’ve got a row of them mixed in with evergreens, and the combo is killer.

Plus, they’re tough. They handle our Midwest swings in temperature and don’t throw a fit if you forget to water them now and then. It’s the kind of plant that earns its keep.

When to Plant for Best Results

Timing really does matter—trust me, I’ve learned this the hard way. If you toss a new tree or shrub into the ground during the heat of summer, you’re asking for trouble. The best time to plant a new tree is either early spring or fall when the roots can get comfy without fighting scorching temps or frozen soil.

I use those planting windows every year, and I’ve noticed healthier growth and way less watering stress. It also gives new plants time to settle in before extreme weather hits. If you’re looking to build that backyard privacy wall, plan ahead—and don’t skip this step.