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Evergreen Screening Hedge

Growing a hedge can serve many purposes in the home and garden landscape. The hedge can block ugly views, as well as preventing others from seeing your own property. A dense hedge can be just as effective as a fence, but also more affordable. A hedge can also help separate different areas of a garden or yard while creating a sense of order and balance. Ideally, a screening hedge should be evergreen so that it serves its purpose year-round.
  1. Thuja Green Gian

    • This evergreen tree is hardy in zones 5 to 9. It grows very rapidly, up to 5 feet per year. Fully mature, it can reach 60 feet tall and up to 20 feet tall. The Thuja Green Giant makes an excellent hedge for open landscapes that need to be screened quickly. It is not well-suited for small spaces because of its large size.

    Holly

    • Hollies make an excellent ornamental hedge.

      Holly is another evergreen tree that is a good choice for screening hedges. There are several different varieties, such as Festive or Needlepoint. They can grow up to 20 feet tall, but do not grow as quickly as the Thuja Green Giant. The tree's red berries in winter are very ornamental and the branches are often cut and brought indoors for holiday decorations.

    Wax Myrtle

    • The wax myrtle is named so because of the small, waxy berries on the female plants. Historically, these berries have been harvested for their wax-like coating that was used to make candles. The evergreen can grow up to 20 feet tall and thrives in sandy soils. Its rapid growth pattern makes it a good hedge choice.

    Juniper

    • The juniper is a good hedge choice for a smaller lot. The tree grows only 4 feet wide, but can reach heights of 15 feet. This evergreen tree prefers full sun. It is also drought-tolerant, making it an excellent choice for drier climates.

    Indian Hawthorn

    • The Indian hawthorn is an evergreen shrub. It is hardy in zones 7 to 10 and produces pink flowers in spring. This plant requires little water but it also susceptible to deer foraging. The size of the plant depends on the variety, but can be anywhere from 2 to 5 feet tall.