9 Swift-Growing Hedge Options to Increase Your Privacy

Posted on 27/05/2025

9 Swift-Growing Hedge Options to Increase Your Privacy

Achieving privacy in your outdoor space can be effortless and aesthetically pleasing with the right plants. Fast-growing hedges are nature's answer to building green walls, offering seclusion and tranquility in a fraction of the time compared to slow-maturing shrubs. Whether you're keen to block out prying eyes, shield your garden from wind, or simply beautify your landscape, selecting quick-growing privacy hedges is a savvy and sustainable choice. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore nine of the best fast-growing hedge plants to consider for an instant privacy boost.

Why Choose Fast-Growing Hedges for Privacy?

Conventional fencing can be expensive and sometimes unsightly, while mature slow-growing plants may take years to deliver results. Swift-growing privacy hedges rapidly create dense, green barriers that not only enhance privacy but also support wildlife, reduce noise pollution, and improve air quality in your garden.

• Quick transformation: Transform an open yard into a secluded retreat within just a few seasons.
• Cost-effective: Planting hedges is often less expensive than installing traditional fencing.
• Eco-friendly: Living hedges filter air pollutants and provide habitats for birds and insects.
• Year-round interest: Many options maintain their foliage even in winter, ensuring privacy all year.

Key Considerations When Choosing a Fast-Growing Hedge

Not all hedge plants are suitable for every location. Before planting, think about:

• Climate compatibility: Ensure the species you select thrives in your area's USDA Hardiness Zone.
• Maintenance level: Some hedges require regular trimming and shaping.
• Soil & sun requirements: Match the plant's preferences with your garden's conditions.
• Desired height & width: Choose hedges that will grow to fit your intended space and privacy needs.
• Leaf retention: Opt for evergreen species if year-round privacy and screening is your goal.

Top 9 Fast-Growing Hedge Plants for Privacy

Ready to create a lush, private sanctuary? Here are nine rapid-growing hedge options that will help you reclaim your garden's seclusion in no time.

1. Leyland Cypress (X Cupressocyparis leylandii)

The Leyland cypress is one of the most popular and fastest-growing privacy hedges across the globe. With a potential annual growth rate of up to 3 feet, this evergreen conifer delivers a tall, dense screen within just a few years.

• Growth rate: Up to 3 feet per year
• Mature height: 60-70 feet (easily trimmed lower)
• Best for: Large properties needing high privacy screens
• Planting tip: Space 3-4 feet apart for a seamless hedge.

Note: Regular trimming helps avoid legginess and keeps Leylandii manageable.

2. Privet (Ligustrum species)

If you're seeking a dense, hardy hedge that responds well to shaping, privet is an outstanding choice. This classic plant is commonly used for formal hedging and can grow up to 2 feet per year.

• Growth rate: 1-2 feet yearly
• Mature height: 4-15 feet, depending on variety
• Best for: Urban gardens and side boundaries
• Planting tip: Thrives in sun or partial shade.

Be aware: Some privet species can be invasive in certain regions.

3. Green Giant Arborvitae (Thuja standishii x plicata 'Green Giant')

The 'Green Giant' arborvitae combines fast growth with disease and pest resistance, making it an ideal quick privacy screen. This conifer remains lush year-round and has a uniform, columnar shape.

• Growth rate: 3-5 feet per year under ideal conditions
• Mature height: 30-50 feet
• Best for: Tall living fences and noise reduction
• Planting tip: Plant 5-6 feet apart.

4. Cherry Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus)

Cherry laurel is a versatile evergreen shrub with glossy leaves and dense growth. It's tolerant of a range of conditions, including shade, and grows up to 2 feet per year, making it perfect for quick privacy in varied sites.

• Growth rate: 1-2 feet per year
• Mature height: 10-20 feet
• Best for: Shady areas and mixed hedgerows
• Planting tip: Can be pruned as a formal or informal hedge.

5. Red Tip Photinia (Photinia x fraseri)

Known for its fiery red new growth, red tip photinia is a favorite for those wanting both privacy and a pop of color. Fast-growing and easy to trim, this evergreen shrub is a top contender for medium-height screens.

• Growth rate: Up to 2 feet per year
• Mature height: 10-15 feet
• Best for: Decorative privacy hedges
• Planting tip: Needs good air circulation to prevent leaf spot.

6. Eastern Redcedar (Juniperus virginiana)

A native evergreen with excellent drought and cold tolerance, eastern redcedar forms thick screens ideal for windbreaks and wildlife habitats. Its feathery foliage adds texture and year-round greenery.

• Growth rate: 1-2 feet per year
• Mature height: Up to 40 feet
• Best for: Naturalistic privacy barriers and windbreaks

7. Bamboo

For instant privacy, few plants can compete with bamboo. Certain clumping varieties shoot up several feet in just a single season, providing a lush and exotic screen. Always choose non-invasive clumping bamboo species for responsible cultivation.

• Growth rate: 1-5 feet per year (some even faster!)
• Mature height: 8-30 feet, depending on species
• Best for: Tight spots, Asian-themed gardens
• Planting tip: Install root barriers to control spread if needed.

Be cautious: Running bamboo can be highly invasive without containment.

8. Boxwood (Buxus species)

Though not as speedy as other hedge plants, certain boxwood varieties, such as 'Green Mountain', can produce a dense privacy screen in a few years under good conditions. Their classic appearance and tolerance for heavy pruning make them beloved choices for formal and compact hedges.

• Growth rate: Up to 1 foot per year
• Mature height: 3-8 feet (variety dependent)
• Best for: Tight spaces, formal gardens, and topiaries
• Planting tip: Thrives best in part shade and well-drained soil.

9. Pittosporum (Pittosporum tenuifolium and cultivars)

Pittosporum species are favored for their silvery or variegated foliage and uniform growth. Capable of rapid expansion, they suit contemporary gardens and mild climates especially well.

• Growth rate: 1-2 feet per year
• Mature height: 10-12 feet
• Best for: Mild, coastal, or Mediterranean-style landscapes
• Planting tip: Prefers well-drained soil and sun.

Care Tips for Swift-Growing Privacy Hedges

To maintain a healthy, thriving privacy screen hedge that grows quickly and evenly, follow these best practices:

• Water regularly: Especially crucial during establishment and in dry spells.
• Fertilize annually: Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring to support vigorous growth.
• Mulch generously: Applying mulch conserves moisture and helps suppress weeds.
• Prune as needed: Frequent, light trimming encourages bushier growth and prevents legginess.
• Check for pests: Monitor foliage for early signs of disease or infestation.

Common Questions About Fast-Growing Privacy Hedges

How far apart should I plant my hedge?

Spacing depends on species and your desired density. Generally, fast-growing hedge plants should be spaced 2-6 feet apart. Always consult the specific requirements for your chosen variety.

How long will it take for my hedge to offer full privacy?

With fast-growing varieties, you can expect a solid screen in as little as 2-4 years, depending on the starting plant size, growing conditions, and aftercare.

Which hedge is best for year-round privacy?

Opt for evergreens such as Leyland cypress, Green Giant arborvitae, or cherry laurel. These retain foliage through all seasons, offering constant coverage.

Can I mix different hedge varieties?

Absolutely! Combining species creates more visual interest, supports local biodiversity, and may increase resilience to pests and diseases.

Conclusion: Choosing the Right Fast-Growing Hedge for Your Privacy Needs

Transforming your yard into a private retreat need not be a waiting game. With so many fast-growing privacy hedge options available, you can quickly establish a living wall that not only protects your space but also enhances it with beauty, fragrance, and wildlife appeal. Whether your priority is speed, evergreen coverage, or decorative interest, there's a hedge plant to suit every landscape. From the skyward growth of Leyland cypress to the lush forms of cherry laurel and bamboo, your garden's privacy is just a planting season away.

Ready to enjoy peace and seclusion? Choose one or more of these swift-growing hedge options to increase your privacy--then watch your green barrier flourish with every passing season!