Privacy Trees

Arborvitae Privacy Trees: A Beautiful, Low-Maintenance Privacy Fence

Arborvitae trees (Thuja species) are among the most popular choices for privacy landscaping, thanks to their dense, evergreen foliage, fast growth, and minimal upkeep. Whether you’re looking to create a natural fence, reduce noise, or simply enhance your backyard, arborvitaes offer year-round beauty and protection.

Why Choose Arborvitae for Privacy?

1. Create a Peaceful, Private Retreat

Arborvitae trees grow tall and full, forming a lush green barrier that blocks unwanted views and reduces noise pollution. Unlike traditional fences, these trees provide a natural, living screen that only becomes denser with time. Fast-growing varieties like Green Giant Arborvitae can add up to 2-3 feet per year, giving you privacy faster than you’d expect!

2. Evergreen Beauty Year-Round

Unlike deciduous trees that lose their leaves in winter, arborvitaes stay green all year long. This means you’ll enjoy a vibrant, lush hedge even during the coldest months. With their soft, feathery foliage and a variety of shades from deep emerald to rich golden hues, arborvitaes bring a touch of elegance to any landscape.

3. Low-Maintenance & Hardy

Arborvitaes are incredibly low-maintenance compared to other privacy trees. They require minimal pruning, adapt well to different soil types, and resist pests and diseases. Many varieties, like Emerald Green Arborvitae, are drought-tolerant once established and thrive in both urban and suburban environments.

4. Wind, Noise, and Pollution Protection

A row of arborvitae trees acts as a natural windbreak, shielding your property from harsh winds, road dust, and even unwanted noise from nearby streets. Their thick foliage absorbs sound, helping you enjoy a quieter and more serene outdoor space.

Choosing the Right Arborvitae for Your Yard

Not all arborvitaes are the same! Consider these factors when selecting the best variety for your landscape:

1. Space & Growth Rate

• Large Spaces: Green Giant Arborvitae is a fast-growing option that reaches 30-50 feet tall, perfect for quick privacy in expansive yards.
• Smaller Yards: Emerald Green Arborvitae grows to about 12-15 feet, making it ideal for compact spaces or narrow property lines.

2. Climate & Hardiness

Arborvitaes thrive in zones 3-8, depending on the variety. If you live in a colder region, choose hardier cultivars like Techny Arborvitae – also referred to as Mission Arborvitae – which tolerates harsh winters better than others.

3. Desired Appearance

• Want a formal, manicured hedge? Emerald Green Arborvitae is perfect for tight, uniform plantings.
• Prefer a natural, rustic look? Green Giant Arborvitae has a looser, more graceful growth habit

How to Care for Arborvitae Privacy Trees

Learn how to plant, grow, & prune arborvitae

1. Sunlight Needs

Most arborvitaes thrive in full sun to partial shade, requiring at least 6 hours of direct sunlight daily for optimal growth. Plant them in a bright, open space for best results.

2. Watering & Soil Requirements

• Water deeply once or twice a week for the first year to establish strong roots.
• After establishment, arborvitaes are drought-tolerant but appreciate occasional deep watering during dry spells.
• They prefer well-draining soil and benefit from a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around the base to retain moisture.

3. Pruning & Maintenance

• Arborvitaes naturally maintain their shape, but you can lightly trim them for a more sculpted look.
• Avoid cutting too much at once—arborvitaes do not regenerate growth from old wood.

4. Winter Protection

• Some varieties, like Emerald Green, may experience winter burn in extreme cold. Wrapping young trees in burlap can help prevent damage.
• Applying mulch around the base insulates the roots from freezing temperatures.

Shop the Best Arborvitae Privacy Trees for Your Yard

Whether you need a fast-growing privacy screen, a compact hedge, or a low-maintenance evergreen, arborvitae trees are an excellent choice. Stop by Platt Hill Nursery in Bloomingdale or Carpentersville for expert advice and the best selection of arborvitae trees in the Chicagoland area!