Privacy and Shade Trees in Hillsboro FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions about Privacy Trees
Privacy trees are an attractive solution to a common problem. We all want privacy in our own home, but fences or walls between houses can seem unfriendly or go against city ordinances. Choose privacy trees instead! Plant them along with the limits of your property and enjoy the natural barrier they create between you and your neighbors. You can have it all—privacy without an eyesore. If privacy trees sound like the solution to your Hillsboro, OR landscaping problem, contact Big Trees Today or read on for more information.
Q: What Are the Best Privacy Trees?
Generally, evergreen trees work best as privacy trees. Most homeowners’ privacy concerns are year-round, so a tree that maintains its green throughout the winter is especially desirable. However, you aren’t limited to just evergreen trees. Find the right shade or privacy tree for you in our tree nursery!
Q: What Are the Fastest-Growing Privacy Trees?
Arborvitaes are an excellent choice if you’re looking for a shade tree that will grow quickly. Different species grow at different rates, but you can expect typical arborvitae to grow three to four feet each year. Heights vary among species, with the smallest shrubs remaining at three feet and the largest trees reaching up to 70 feet. The straight and skinny Leyland cypress, which grows up to four feet each year, is also a fantastic choice for homeowners looking for a fast-growing privacy tree in the Hillsboro, OR area.
Q: How Do I Choose the Right Privacy Tree for Me?
When choosing the perfect privacy tree for you, there are many factors to consider. First, think about the height you want each tree to cover. Don’t forget to check for power lines, roofing, patios, or anything else that the tree could eventually grow into. It will be much easier to anticipate problems before planting than waiting until maintenance becomes a problem. Another factor to consider is the width of the space where you want to plant. If you want some privacy trees in the narrow area between your house and a neighbor’s, a tall, skinny tree may be the perfect choice for you. Once you’ve figured out the size, it’s time to think about the kind of coverage you want. If your home is close to unsightly railroad tracks or another year-round eyesore, any evergreen tree could be an excellent choice. Some privacy trees can help with noise as well. If excessive noise is an issue for you, try a shade tree with long needles and dense branches that will absorb unwanted sound. Still not sure about which privacy trees will work for you? Visit Big Trees Today’s tree nursery in Hillsboro, OR to chat with a specialist!
Q: How Many Privacy Trees Will I Need?
The exact number of trees you’ll need for your home is dependent on the length of space you want to cover and the size of the trees you choose. Another thing to consider is how long you can wait for complete privacy. Some of Big Trees Today’s clients choose to buy smaller trees with the knowledge they will eventually grow to their full height. Our tree specialists are happy to discuss your options with you. Visit our tree nursery in Hillsboro, OR or get a quote to start exploring.
Q: How Far Apart Should My Privacy Trees Be?
Distance between your privacy trees depends on the type of tree and how far it can spread. For an estimate on how far your plant will spread, divide the width of a mature plant by two. This number is how much your plant will typically grow on either side. Arborvitae trees are a great choice for homeowners who don’t want to worry about privacy trees growing into each other. These trees have soft leaves, so they won’t damage each other if planted close together.
Q: Are Privacy Trees Drought-Resistant?
With proper maintenance, some types of privacy trees are drought-resistant. Arborvitae hold up well against hot temperatures, although regular watering is crucial in their first year. Certain evergreen trees are drought-resistant as well. The Leyland cypress, for example, holds up in the sweltering heat of the Southeastern United States. For specific information on privacy and shade trees that work best in the Pacific Northwest, ask one of Big Trees Today’s specialists.
Q: What Kind of Maintenance Do Privacy Trees Need?
The exact maintenance your tree needs depends on the type you choose. General care for privacy trees is simple. Watering your plants is crucial, and you may want to install a sprinkler to get the job done. Big Trees Today has experts who can help you with your specific maintenance questions.
Q: Can Privacy Trees Be Used as Windbreakers?
Definitely! Strategically planting shade trees in the most common wind directions can block strong winds and snowdrifts. North is usually a safe guess for wind directions but contacting a local airport can give you a more exact answer. Windbreaking trees work best planted 40 to 80 feet from your home set at a right angle to the direction of the wind. Let our Big Trees Today specialists know about your plan to use a shade tree as a windbreaker. We’ll work with you to find the perfect planting location.
Q: Are Privacy Trees Deer-Resistant?
No trees are totally deer-resistant, but certain types are generally left alone by deer. Evergreens are unpleasant for deer to eat and are uncomfortable to touch. While deer may try to eat them during the winter when food is scarce, evergreens tend to be a safe choice for homeowners looking for something deer-resistant.