Fastest Growing Evergreens Introduction
Imagine a lush green wall that doesn't just mark your border but also shields you from prying eyes. Everyone wants results, and they want them NOW! This is especially true if you want to create privacy with evergreen trees or shrubs. You know you want year-round color but choosing the right evergreen tree or shrub is not an easy decision.
How to Select the Right Fast-Growing Evergreen for a Privacy Fence
Navigating the world of the fastest growing evergreens requires understanding various factors. From climate compatibility to growth rates and maintenance demands, these plants have specific needs that dictate their success in your yard.
Benefits of Using Fast-Growing Evergreens for Privacy Fences
When it comes to privacy, speed matters, and that's where planting the fastest growing evergreens shines. These vibrant beauties offer more than just seclusion; they transform your yard into a private oasis almost instantly. Besides the privacy boost, they are low-maintenance and eco-friendly, contributing positively to your surroundings.
What Does Fast Growing Mean?
As usual in the world of horticulture, there is not a uniform description. According to our local County Co-operative Extension Office, in general, a label of slow growth is less than a foot a year. Medium or moderate growth is 13 to 24 inches a year. That makes a fast-growing tree or shrub that grows 25 inches per year or more.
Top 12 Fastest Growing Evergreens
Here's our list of the top 12 fastest growing evergreen trees and shrubs that are available for homeowners online. Okay, there are actually 10 on the list but we threw in 2 bonus evergreens you might want to consider, including one of the few evergreen trees that grows well in shade.
Keep in mind that the average growth rate per year is just that, an average. Growth rates will vary depending on soil conditions, sun exposure, and watering.
Clicking on any product name will open a new tab to show the lowest prices available online from top rated nurseries.
Name | Botanical Name | Average Annual Growth Rate | Features |
Wax Myrtle | Myrica cerifera | 3 - 5 feet | Popular as a tall hedge. Tolerant of very poor and sandy soils. |
Arborvitae Green Giant | Thuja standishii x plicata | 3 - 4 feet | One of the best-selling privacy & windbreak trees. |
Leyland Cypress | Cupressocyparis leylandii | 3 - 4 feet | Tall, slender shape. Less pyramidal than others. |
Cryptomeria Radicans | Cryptomeria japonica var. sinensis | 3 - 4 feet | Also known as Japanese Cedar. Soft, dense foliage. |
Murray Cypress | Cupressus x leylandii ‘Murray’ | 3 - 4 feet | Considered faster & easier to grow than popular Leyland Cypress. |
Italian Cypress | Cupressus sempervirens | 2 - 3 feet | Grows to just 5 feet wide.Tall & slender, like the Leyland. |
Nellie Stevens Holly | Ilex 'Nellie R. Stevens' | 2 - 3 feet | Plant 5-6 feet apart to create a dense hedge. |
Waxleaf Privet (Ligustrum) | Ligustrum japonicum 'Texanum' | 2 - 3 feet | Great hedge. Fragrant white blooms in spring. Handles pruning to shape well. |
Eastern White Pine | Pinus strobus | 2 - 3 feet | Often grown as Christmas trees because they grow fast |
Norway Spruce | Picea abies | 2 - 3 feet | Dense foliage. Tolerates a wide variety of soil types. |
Two Bonus Fast Growers
Canadian Hemlock - The average growth rate is 3 to 4 feet a year. Canadian Hemlocks are one of the few evergreen trees that grow in shade.
Dawn Redwood - Average growth rate is 2 to 3 feet a year. Despite being a conifer, the Dawn Redwood is not an evergreen. Dawn Redwood trees do well in wet soil, such as in low-lying areas.
Be sure to reference the USDA plant hardiness zone map to make sure you select evergreens that are right for your climate.
Other Factors to Consider
Height and Spread Considerations
Selecting the right evergreen entails not just considering their height but also their width. Proper planning for the plant's growth ensures your privacy fence remains aesthetically pleasing and functional.
Seasonal Characteristics
Evergreens offer beauty all year round, but they are not immune to seasonal changes. Understanding how they behave in different seasons can help you gauge their suitability for your specific location.
Pest and Disease Resistance
Resilience is key when it comes to maintaining your privacy fence. Choose evergreens known for their pest and disease resistance to minimize potential threats and ensure longevity.
Root System and Space Considerations
Beneath the surface beauty lies the root system, which can impact nearby structures if not managed effectively. Understanding the root structures of different evergreens helps you plan for growth without causing damage.
Cost and Budgeting
While the initial cost of fast-growing evergreens might raise your eyebrows, considering their long-term benefits can justify the investment. There are budget-friendly options available that offer both speed and savings.
Installation and Care Tips
From planting to pruning, evergreen care requires attention to detail. Mastering the art of installation and maintenance ensures a thriving privacy fence that enhances your outdoor space.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Fastest Growing Evergreens
Are fast-growing evergreens high maintenance?
Fast-growing evergreens can be low maintenance with proper care and attention.
How quickly do fast-growing evergreens provide privacy?
Depending on the type, fast-growing evergreens can offer privacy within a few months to a couple of years
Do fast-growing evergreens attract pests?
While no plant is entirely immune, many fast-growing evergreens have natural pest resistance.
Can I plant fast-growing evergreens in any climate?
It's essential to choose evergreens that are suited to your specific climate for optimal growth. You can look up your hardiness grow zone at https://planthardiness.ars.usda.gov/
Do fast-growing evergreens shed leaves in winter?
Most fast-growing evergreens are evergreen, meaning they retain their foliage throughout the year to provide continuous privacy.
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