Blocking a neighbor’s view has become the number one priority for people who want to maintain their privacy. As much as families want to spend time outside in their yard, they are also concerned about being watched by someone else.
Most people require any object that is being planted to block the view should be aesthetically pleasing as well. There are many unique and beautiful solutions to this problem.
Trees, plants, and shrubs can all be built or planted to block the neighbors’ view. Planted flora can be customized and designed in multiple ways. The cost may vary because of the size, design, and materials chosen.
There are all kinds of different trees and bushes that grow tall enough to block your neighbors’ view into your home and yard. Your choice will likely come down to aesthetic preference. Read on to learn about the different options available to you.
Shrub and Trees to Block Neighbors’ View
There are costs and aesthetics to consider when you are going to add shrubs or trees to your yard. You can choose many different options such as
- Types of greenery
- Additional purposes of your natural fence
- How cost-effective it will be
There are many different types of trees and bushes to choose from if you are looking to create a natural fence and gain some privacy from your neighbors.
When looking at trees and shrubs, you should consider where you are growing them and consult a professional if necessary. Some of the most popular choices are the arborvitae, Spartan Juniper, and the eastern red cedar.
You may choose a natural fence of trees and bushes to provide some privacy, but it can also serve additional positive purposes for you and your family. Plants, trees, and shrubs are great for the environment because they convert carbon dioxide into oxygen which is additional good for your health.
Some bushes and trees will be more expensive than others. When you are choosing, if you have a tight budget, you should consult a professional who will be able to recommend options that will not break the bank.
Variables will include how rare the plant is, how durable it is, and if it is native or invasive to where you will be introducing it along with how aggressive is the root system. It is important to factor in your ecosystem when choosing a natural fence.
If you live in an area with a lot of wildlife, you may want to plant a tree or shrub that can provide shelter for birds. It is important to keep in mind the natural habitats and toxicity of the plants you choose. You want to contribute to nature instead of creating a plan that will end up harming the environment.
Arborvitae
If you are located anywhere in the United States, you are probably already familiar with the arborvitae and its ability to be used as a natural fence to block views from neighbors and passersby. It is easily one of the most commonly used choices for privacy.
The arborvitae is distinct from other trees.
- It is considered a tree or shrub and looks like a bush due to its dense appearance.
- It is known as evergreen because its leaves stay green all year round.
- It can be pruned into distinctive shapes, such as cones or spirals.
Arborvitae is a great option for blocking neighbors’ views because, even though they are dense enough to protect your yard quickly after they are purchased, they do not grow quickly or to great heights, most of the time, and maintenance is relatively simple compared to other trees.
You can let them grow on their own, and they are likely to maintain a pleasant, ornamental shape without support.
There are several additional bonuses to planting arborvitae around your yard. The leaves are gentle to the touch and, although consuming large doses can be harmful to most mammals, they are unlikely to cause extreme harm to a pet that is caught nibbling on one.
Arborvitae is relatively healthy and unlikely to catch diseases as well so they can last quite a long time as a natural fence.
Spartan Juniper
The Spartan Juniper is another great option if you are looking to plant a series of trees to block your neighbors’ view of your house and yard. Spartan Junipers are distinguished trees that tend to grow in pyramidal shapes.
This allows you to have a dense foliage wall at the base. But as you look up towards the tops of these trees, you will still be able to see the sky. allow sunlight to come into your yard.
Spartan Junipers only grow to be around 15 feet tall so they are a great tree for areas where there is limited space. You can put them in a slightly crowded area without causing it to feel claustrophobic.
If your yard is full of tough soil or prone to inclement weather, the Spartan Juniper is still likely to do well in these conditions. The tree is also non-toxic so it is a good option for pet owners.
An added bonus of the Spartan Juniper is that you do not need to take care of or prune it to maintain its natural, view-blocking shape. If you are looking for an option that requires minimal care but still serves its purpose well, the Spartan Juniper is worth considering.
However, adults tend to cost more than young ones so if you are trying to save money, you may want to consider planting young and waiting for it to grow.
Eastern Red Cedar
The eastern red cedar is a great choice to obscure your property from your neighbors’ view if you are hoping to keep a casual look for your yard. The eastern red cedar is a relatively common tree, especially along the east coast of the United States. Although its edges tend to be uneven, it still can provide dense and effective coverage.
There are several types of eastern red cedar trees, but most of them are effective in blocking views. However, some of them are more susceptible to diseases than others.
For example, a cultivar referred to as “Juniperus virginiana” is highly resistant to cedar-apple dust, but one cultivar named “Emerald Sentinel” has been deemed one of the most durable plants and can withstand the apple dust pathogen easily.
If you have apple trees in your yard, it would be advisable to stay away from eastern red cedars. They are likely to be resilient to most other tree bacteria, though. If you have lots of wildlife such as birds in your yard, they would probably appreciate an eastern red cedar in which to build their nests and seek shelter from the elements.
Overall, it is a reliable and sturdy choice to plant for blocking your neighbors’ view.
Conclusion
If you are troubled by the view your neighbors have of your house, planting a tree or bush can be a great way to solve the problem. Privacy can be invaluable when it comes to having a relaxing home, and you could even be contributing to the well-being of nearby wildlife.
It also means that you and your family will be more likely to spend time outdoors, which would lead to a positive effect on your overall mental health.
If you think that planting a natural fence might be a good solution to your dilemma, then it would be worth it to consider the costs, benefits, and aesthetics of several different options. You can choose something that complements your yard while also helping you feel more at home.
If planting a natural fence isn’t for you could always look at our article on what you could plant against your fence to provide a little more privacy then normal.
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