Fast Growing Privacy Trees for Your Gardens

Privacy is an important factor for many homeowners. Whether you are looking to create a peaceful retreat from the outside world or simply want to enjoy your backyard without the prying eyes of neighbors, privacy trees can be an excellent solution. In this blog, we will discuss some of the fastest-growing privacy trees available, including the Green Giant Arborvitae, English Laurel, Western Red Cedar, Pembury Blue, and Japanese Cedar. We will also cover how to care for these trees during the winter months, how to fertilize them, how to fight off diseases, and how to maintain healthy hedges.

Green Giant Arborvitae

The Green Giant Arborvitae is an excellent choice for those looking for a fast-growing privacy tree. This tree can grow up to three feet per year and can reach a height of up to 60 feet. The Green Giant is also very hardy and can thrive in a variety of soil types and climates.

When caring for the Green Giant Arborvitae during the winter months, it is important to make sure that the tree is well-hydrated. Water the tree deeply before the ground freezes, and avoid watering it during the winter months when the ground is frozen. It is also important to protect the tree from heavy snow and ice, which can damage its branches and leaves.

To fertilize the Green Giant Arborvitae, use a balanced fertilizer in the early spring. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully, and avoid over-fertilizing the tree, as this can lead to damage and disease.

One common disease that can affect the Green Giant Arborvitae is root rot. To prevent this, make sure that the tree is planted in well-draining soil and that it is not overwatered. If you notice signs of root rot, such as yellowing or wilting leaves, consult a professional arborist.

English Laurel

English Laurel is another fast-growing privacy tree that can add beauty and privacy to your property. This tree can grow up to two feet per year and can reach a height of up to 20 feet. The English Laurel is also very hardy and can thrive in a variety of soil types and climates.

When caring for English Laurel during the winter months, it is important to protect the tree from heavy snow and ice, which can damage its branches and leaves. You can do this by tying the branches together and wrapping them in burlap.

Western Red Cedar

This tree is hardy and can withstand winter temperatures. However, it can suffer from winter burn due to the cold, dry winds. To protect your Western Red Cedar, water it well in the fall, and apply a thick layer of mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture. 

You can also wrap burlap around the tree to help protect it from windburn. In terms of fertilization, Western Red Cedar prefers a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 in the spring and fall. Finally, be on the lookout for cedar rust, which can be treated with a fungicide.

Pembury Blue

This tree is also hardy and can withstand winter temperatures. However, it prefers well-drained soil, so make sure to plant it in an area with good drainage. To care for your Pembury Blue during the winter, water it well in the fall and provide a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture. 

For fertilization, use a balanced fertilizer with a ratio of 10-10-10 in the spring and fall. In terms of disease prevention, watch for pests like spider mites and aphids and treat them with insecticidal soap if necessary.

Japanese Cedar: 

This tree is also hardy and can tolerate winter temperatures, but it prefers slightly acidic soil. To care for your Japanese Cedar during the winter, water it well in the fall and provide a layer of mulch around the base of the tree to help retain moisture. For fertilization, use a fertilizer with a higher ratio of nitrogen in the spring and fall. In terms of disease prevention, watch for pests like scale insects and spider mites, which can be treated with insecticidal soap.

To maintain healthy fast growing privacy trees, prune regularly to encourage bushy growth and remove any dead or diseased branches. Water trees regularly, especially during dry spells, and fertilize them with a balanced fertilizer according to the instructions on the package. Watch for pests and diseases and treat them promptly if necessary. Finally, be careful not to over-prune or prune hedges during hot, dry weather, as this can stress the plants.