3 Beautiful Plants That Make Great Privacy Shrubs

It's a dance-in-your-kitchen-with-a-pint-of-ice-cream kind of night. We get it, these things happen.

But while you're jamming out, you see someone walking their dog outside and you lock eyes.

Quick! Go shut the blinds!

Maybe you're one of those people who think that you only need curtains and window shades for privacy. Maybe you think having a home landscape made up of barren, featureless grass is the ideal way to achieve it.

You may be surprised to learn that certain plants can create a barrier between your home and the outside world.

And they look good doing it.

Let's take a closer look at three of the best privacy shrubs for your home.

Ligustrum AKA Privets

Privets are one of the best shrubs for privacy because they grow tall, wide, and tolerate different climates. 

Their leaves are dense and opaque, and their flowers are easily seen yet not distracting when they bloom.

Many gardeners shy away from privets as privacy shrubs because they heard they were invasive. In other words, that they'll take over your entire landscape and make it hard for your other plants to grow. 

This privet is different. It's the first non-invasive privet of its kind, offering the reliable privacy of privets without the worry that you're damaging your own garden. 

Boxwoods

Boxwoods grow well in most climates, and their dense foliage provides ample screening.

Boxwoods can reach a height of up to six feet, making them one of the best tall shrubs for privacy.

Creative landscapers love boxwoods because you can prune them into all kinds of shapes to accent your outdoor space.

Try planting a long row of them and see why boxwoods are one of the best shrubs for a privacy fence!

There are a few things to keep in mind, though. First, boxwoods need regular pruning to maintain their shape; if neglected, they can become leggy and sparse. You can also over-prune them and trigger growth that can be hard to keep in check.

Barberries

Barberries are fast-growing privacy shrubs that can grow up to ten feet tall.

Certain species stay green year-round, others change colors and their leaves whither in the fall. Make sure to find out what kind of barberry you have and plan accordingly, especially if you're using it for privacy.

Barberries tend to grow uniformly, so pruning is not a necessity. Nothing is stopping you, however, from pruning them into a different shape if you're feeling bold.

Be careful, though. Their thorns can be quite sharp, so use caution when trimming or handling them.

Privacy Shrubs: Which Is Your Favorite?

These three plants add beauty and a sense of security to your yard. They also help to keep your home cooler in the summer.

Out of all the different types of privacy shrubs to choose from, which one do you like the most? Make sure to go outside and take a look around your home to see where you need a plant. Go find where that dog walker was standing so you can dance and eat your ice cream in peace!

If you're interested in adding a privacy shrub to your yard, give us a call!