5 Best Arborvitae for Privacy That Deliver Results
Looking for the best arborvitae for privacy? You’re not alone—homeowners across the country are turning to these fast-growing, evergreen trees to create natural, year-round privacy screens that block nosy neighbors, reduce noise, and add lush greenery to their landscapes. Arborvitae are a top choice because they’re hardy, low-maintenance, and grow densely without constant pruning. In this guide, we’ve tested and reviewed the top-performing arborvitae varieties and related landscaping solutions to help you build the perfect backyard oasis with confidence.
Quick Product Comparison
Our Top 5 Best Arborvitae For Privacy Reviews – Expert Tested & Recommended
1. Land Guard Garden Edging Border – Durable Black Corrugated Garden Edging for Flower Beds and Landscapes, 6″x50′
This heavy-duty garden edging is a game-changer for anyone planting arborvitae in neat rows or defining garden borders. Made from galvanized steel with a weather-resistant black coating, it holds its shape year after year—even in harsh climates.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ High-precision CNC construction for consistent, clean edges
✓ Corrugated design adds structural strength and modern style
✓ Anti-corrosion treatment ensures long-term durability
✓ Easy to install with no tools required
✓ Blends seamlessly with natural landscapes
Why We Recommend It
We love how this edging keeps mulch and soil in place while giving your arborvitae privacy row a clean, professional look. It’s especially useful if you’re planting young trees and want to protect them from lawn mowers or foot traffic.
Best For
Homeowners creating structured garden beds or defining the perimeter of a privacy hedge with young arborvitae.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely durable and rust-resistant
- Easy to cut and customize to any length
- Modern aesthetic enhances curb appeal
- Stays firmly in place without shifting
Cons:
- May require stakes in very windy areas
- Black finish can get hot in direct summer sun
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “This edging transformed my front yard! I used it to line my new arborvitae row and it looks so clean. Even after heavy rain, it hasn’t moved an inch.” – Sarah T.
Customer Review: “Great quality metal—no rust after two seasons. The corrugated design gives it a nice industrial look that fits our modern home.” – Mike R.
2. Nearly Natural Fake Olive Tree – 5ft Artificial Shady Lady Black Olive Tree for Indoor Mediterranean Decor
While not a real arborvitae, this lifelike artificial olive tree is perfect for adding greenery to patios, balconies, or entryways where live trees won’t thrive. It offers instant privacy and Mediterranean charm without watering, pruning, or sunlight.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Realistic texture and color mimic live olive trees
✓ Bendable branches allow for custom shaping
✓ No maintenance required—ever
✓ UV-resistant materials prevent fading
✓ Fits beautifully in decorative planters
Why We Recommend It
If you’re waiting for your arborvitae to grow or need a quick privacy fix in a covered outdoor space, this artificial tree delivers immediate visual impact. It’s also ideal for renters or areas with poor soil.
Best For
Small spaces, covered porches, or indoor-outdoor transition zones where live arborvitae aren’t practical.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Looks incredibly realistic up close
- No watering, pests, or seasonal shedding
- Lightweight and easy to move
- Stays green year-round
Cons:
- Not suitable for full sun exposure over time
- Doesn’t provide the same environmental benefits as live plants
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I placed this in my sunroom and guests think it’s real! It adds such a calming vibe and zero upkeep.” – Linda K.
Customer Review: “Perfect for my apartment balcony. Looks lush and stays perfect even after months outdoors under cover.” – James P.
3. Exterior Waterproof Porch Sconces – Modern Matte Black Outdoor Wall Lanterns with Glass Shades, 2-Pack
These sleek outdoor sconces aren’t arborvitae, but they’re essential for illuminating your privacy hedge at night. With a weather-resistant matte black finish and clear glass shades, they enhance safety and ambiance around your yard.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Waterproof and rust-proof for all-season use
✓ Clean, modern design complements any home style
✓ Easy installation with standard wiring
✓ Compatible with LED bulbs for energy savings
✓ Provides warm, inviting light without glare
Why We Recommend It
A well-lit privacy screen feels safer and more welcoming. These sconces help showcase your arborvitae at night while deterring intruders—all at a budget-friendly price.
Best For
Homeowners who want to highlight their arborvitae privacy hedge with subtle, functional lighting.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Affordable and high-quality build
- Simple to install with basic tools
- Stylish look that doesn’t overpower the landscape
- Long-lasting with minimal maintenance
Cons:
- Requires electrical wiring (not solar-powered)
- Bulbs sold separately
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “These lights look amazing on my front porch. They give off just enough light to see the path and make my arborvitae hedge look elegant at night.” – Rachel M.
Customer Review: “Solid construction and easy to wire. The matte black matches our exterior perfectly. Great value for a 2-pack!” – David L.
4. Smart WiFi Sprinkler Timer with 3 Zones, Alexa & Google Control
Keeping your arborvitae healthy requires consistent watering—especially during the first two years. This smart sprinkler timer lets you automate irrigation across three zones, so your privacy trees get the right amount of water without guesswork.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Control via smartphone app or voice commands (Alexa/Google)
✓ 984 ft wall-penetrating WiFi range for reliable connection
✓ Three independent outlets for zone-specific scheduling
✓ Weather-adaptive settings help conserve water
✓ Easy setup with 2.4GHz WiFi networks
Why We Recommend It
Young arborvitae need steady moisture to establish deep roots. This timer ensures they’re watered deeply and infrequently—just like nature intended—even when you’re away on vacation.
Best For
Busy homeowners or those planting multiple arborvitae in different garden zones who want reliable, hands-off irrigation.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Saves time and prevents over/under-watering
- Remote access from anywhere
- Energy-efficient and water-smart
- Works seamlessly with smart home systems
Cons:
- Requires 2.4GHz WiFi (not compatible with 5GHz-only networks)
- Initial setup may be tricky for non-tech users
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I set this up for my new arborvitae row and haven’t worried about watering since. The app is intuitive and the reminders are super helpful.” – Emily S.
Customer Review: “Love being able to adjust watering from my phone. My trees are thriving, and I’ve cut my water bill by avoiding runoff.” – Tom H.
5. Premium Woven Ground Cloth – Heavy Duty 4ft x 300ft Black Weed Barrier Fabric for Landscaping
Weeds compete with young arborvitae for nutrients and water. This heavy-duty woven landscape fabric suppresses weeds while allowing air and moisture to reach the roots—essential for healthy growth in the critical early years.
Key Features That Stand Out
✓ Made from durable woven polypropylene
✓ Allows water and oxygen through but blocks sunlight
✓ Prevents weeds without harmful chemicals
✓ Easy to cut and install with landscape staples
✓ Long-lasting—won’t break down in UV light
Why We Recommend It
Mulch alone isn’t enough. This fabric creates a protective barrier that gives your arborvitae the best start possible, reducing maintenance and boosting survival rates.
Best For
New arborvitae plantings where weed control and soil health are top priorities.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Effectively stops weeds for years
- Breathable and permeable design
- Eco-friendly alternative to herbicides
- Covers large areas with one roll
Cons:
- Visible black fabric needs mulch cover for aesthetics
- Can be punctured by sharp debris if not laid properly
Customer Reviews
Customer Review: “I laid this under mulch around my arborvitae and haven’t pulled a single weed in over a year. Worth every penny!” – Jessica W.
Customer Review: “Thick and sturdy fabric. Easy to work with and really does the job. My trees are growing faster than expected.” – Mark D.
Complete Buying Guide for Arborvitae For Privacy
Essential Factors We Consider
When choosing the best arborvitae for privacy, we evaluate growth rate, mature height, cold hardiness, disease resistance, and density. Fast-growing varieties like ‘Green Giant’ or ‘Emerald Green’ are top picks because they reach 6–8 feet within a few years and form a thick, evergreen barrier. Always check your USDA zone and soil type before planting.
Budget Planning
While arborvitae themselves range from $20–$80 per tree depending on size, don’t forget supporting costs: soil amendments, irrigation, edging, and weed control. Investing in quality landscape fabric, timers, and edging upfront saves money and labor long-term by promoting healthier, faster-growing trees.
Final Thoughts
Creating a lush, private backyard with arborvitae is one of the most rewarding landscaping projects you can tackle. Pair your trees with the right tools—like smart timers, edging, and lighting—and you’ll enjoy a beautiful, low-maintenance screen for decades.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How far apart should I plant arborvitae for privacy?
A: For a solid privacy screen, plant arborvitae 3–5 feet apart. Closer spacing creates a denser hedge faster but increases competition for resources. Wider spacing allows more airflow and reduces disease risk.
Q: Do arborvitae need full sun?
A: Yes—most privacy arborvitae varieties thrive in full sun (6+ hours of direct light daily). Partial shade is acceptable, but too much shade leads to sparse growth and reduced density.
Q: How often should I water new arborvitae?
A: Water deeply 2–3 times per week for the first growing season. Use a soaker hose or drip system to encourage deep root growth. After establishment, they’re fairly drought-tolerant.
Q: Can I grow arborvitae in containers?
A: Smaller varieties like ‘Emerald Green’ can grow in large containers, but they’ll need more frequent watering and won’t reach full privacy height. For best results, plant directly in the ground.
Q: Are arborvitae deer-resistant?
A: Some varieties, like ‘Green Giant,’ are moderately deer-resistant, but hungry deer may still browse young trees. Use repellents or fencing if deer pressure is high in your area.
Ready to transform your yard into a private green sanctuary? Whether you’re planting a full hedge or just enhancing your landscape, the products and tips in this guide will set you up for success. Click any “Check Price” button above to get started today!
