6 of the best fast-growing hedges that promise extra privacy in your backyard

A garden with a lawn, a small flower border, and a tall green hedge

If you're looking for a natural way to screen an overlooked backyard, a hedge is one of the best options out there. True, erecting a fence may be the quickest way to seclude your spot, but they lack that green and seamless look of trees or hedges - and of course, they're not a wildlife-friendly option either. The good news is, there are a few hedges out there that grow so fast that they'll create a private outdoor space in next to no time, and it will only grow better year after year too. 

As Lina Cowley, gardening expert at Trimmed Roots, puts it: 'Creating a private oasis in your backyard can be a game-changer for your outdoor living experience, but sometimes, building a fence or wall isn't the most aesthetically pleasing option.' That's where fast-growing hedges come in. 'They provide a natural barrier that's both beautiful and practical,' she adds.