The Best Plants for Privacy in Small Spaces

a person holding a freshly harvested handful of compost

When it comes to creating privacy in your outdoor space, small yards or limited areas can present a unique challenge. However, with the right selection of plants, even the smallest spaces can be transformed into private, serene environments. Whether you're looking to shield your yard from neighbors or create a cozy outdoor sanctuary, Earthscapes Solutions has the perfect landscaping solutions for you. Below, we highlight some of the best plants for achieving privacy in small spaces.

1. Arborvitae: The Classic Privacy Hedge

Arborvitae is a fan favorite when it comes to creating living walls for privacy. Its tall, slender shape makes it ideal for small yards, as it takes up very little horizontal space while still providing excellent vertical coverage. Arborvitae also retains its lush green color year-round, ensuring your outdoor space remains private and beautiful in every season.

  • Best for: Tight spaces along fences or property lines.
  • Maintenance: Low; requires occasional trimming to maintain its shape.

2. Bamboo: Fast-Growing and Versatile

If you're seeking something a bit more exotic, bamboo may be the perfect choice. Not only does bamboo grow quickly, but it also provides dense coverage in a short amount of time. There are clumping varieties that are ideal for small spaces, as they don't spread aggressively like other bamboo types. Bamboo can add both height and texture to your garden, making it a unique addition to your privacy plan.

  • Best for: Creating a tropical look or a natural screen for patios and decks.
  • Maintenance: Moderate; be sure to choose clumping varieties to control spread.

3. Boxwood: The Perfect Green Wall

Boxwoods are another great option for small-space privacy. Known for their compact size and versatility, boxwoods can be trimmed into formal hedges or allowed to grow naturally for a more relaxed look. They are evergreen, meaning they'll maintain their structure and greenery throughout the year. With regular maintenance, boxwoods can be the foundation of a lovely living fence.

  • Best for: Formal hedges around patios or small seating areas.
  • Maintenance: High; requires regular trimming for a neat appearance.

4. Privet: A Dense, Fast-Growing Hedge

Privet is a classic choice for creating privacy in small yards. It grows quickly and can be easily shaped into hedges or screens, making it perfect for defining outdoor spaces or blocking views from neighbors. Its dense foliage creates an immediate sense of enclosure, and with proper pruning, it can maintain its shape for years.

  • Best for: Fast-growing privacy for small to medium-sized yards.
  • Maintenance: Moderate; needs regular pruning to maintain shape.

5. Holly: A Decorative and Functional Barrier

Holly plants are an excellent way to add beauty to your yard while still achieving privacy. Their shiny leaves and vibrant red berries make them an attractive option for creating a visual barrier. Holly can be grown as a hedge or as a standalone plant, depending on the space available. It's also known for being relatively low-maintenance and hardy.

  • Best for: Natural privacy screens in small gardens.
  • Maintenance: Low; occasional pruning is required for shaping.

6. Flowering Dogwood: Privacy with a Splash of Color

If you're looking for a privacy solution that also adds seasonal interest, flowering dogwoods are a wonderful choice. These small trees offer springtime blooms, fall foliage, and winter berries, providing both privacy and beauty throughout the year. Though they don't grow as tall as some hedges, they can create a sense of seclusion and soften the edges of your outdoor space.

  • Best for: Adding seasonal color while enhancing privacy in small areas.
  • Maintenance: Low; pruning may be necessary to shape the tree.

Why Fall is the Perfect Time to Plant

Fall is the best season for planting privacy trees and shrubs. Cooler temperatures and increased rainfall help plants establish strong root systems before winter, making them hardier for the following spring and summer. At Earthscapes Solutions, we always recommend planning and planting in the fall to give your privacy plants the best chance to thrive.

Custom Landscaping for Privacy

At Earthscapes Solutions, we understand that no two yards are alike. Whether you’re dealing with a narrow lot, limited space, or simply want a unique look, our expert team can help design and install the perfect landscaping solution tailored to your privacy needs. We focus on selecting plants that complement the natural environment of Chattanooga, ensuring that your landscape is both beautiful and sustainable.

Explore The Blog