Dear Jessica: Part of my 150-foot-wide property has been cleared for an inground pool. Next to my home are two-story homes that overlook my property from their second floor, so I'm looking to plant privacy shrubs that could grow up to 10 feet taller than my 6-foot stockade fence. The area gets full sun from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. I did some research on Green Giants, Leyland cypresses and arborvitae, and I've become overwhelmed. I understand that Leyland cypress grow 10-feet wide and deep. I don't mind the width, but I'd prefer not to sacrifice yard space for their depth. I'm told that some shrubs have to be wrapped over winter, and I'd prefer not to have to do that.
_ Kelly Ann Russo
Dear Kelly Ann: I certainly understand your desire for privacy, and I'd imagine you'd like it sooner than later. You really can't go wrong with either Leyland cypress (Cuprocyparis x leylandii) or Green Giant arborvitae (Thuja standishii x plicata, Green Giant). Green Giant can grow to about 60 feet tall with a width of 14 feet. It is denser than Leyland cypress, so it may provide better adjacent privacy, but that likely isn't a major concern for you since they will be planted in front of a fence. Leyland cypress is a bit larger, with the potential to max out at 70 feet tall and 15 feet wide. Both have a growth rate of roughly 3 to 5 feet in height per year, but both will also grow into your yard space beyond your stated comfort zone.
