Greetings DGers. Would love some suggestions. Backyard completely neglected, not one spec of anything other than grass. Good new fence, though.
I have a spot near my east fence that could use some interest, and something that grows fast to block the neighbor's view of our backyard wouldn't hurt. The area is shaded by a huge tree in the neighbor's yard, but will get west sun in the afternoon. I need it to be non-toxic, as our new pup eats nearly everything, branches and sticks included. Doesn't need to flower or fruit, just look reasonably nice and leafy, would prefer something that isn't a bare set of sticks in the winter but I realize I might be getting too picky.
Out here in Brenham, wondering what to plant.
Thanks!
Need fast grower, dense, non-toxic
Locations that get morning shade and afternoon sun are difficult to plant. How late in the afternoon will it get the west sun? One tree that comes to mind immediately is Thuga 'Green Giant' because I have been considering using them as a wind screen since they are supposed to retain their lower branches. They are fast growing as well — 3 to 5 feet a year is claimed. Maybe a bit slower since they will get shade for part of the day. The only problem is that they will eventually get rather large. What is the size of the planting area? I assume that you are looking for evergreen trees or shrubs.
I've been eyeballing the Thuja Green Giant online, actually!! They look great and the husband loves evergreens. Size of the planting area is nearly limitless, fence is probably 50' long and the trees could easily line the fence and come into the yard 6 to 10 feet if needed. Only problem is if they get too tall it'll fight with the neighbor's tree. I'll take a pic this afternoon and post so you can see the physics of what I'm working with.
Okay, here's the spot... interested in your thoughts. Thuja?
It doesn't look like the neighbor's tree hangs over the fence into your yard. So vertical growth would not be a problem. Green Giant does grow tall, anywhere frim 30' to 60'. An option would be to plant a few spaced far apart. These would break up the view but not block it completely. The neighbor's tree would still get sunlight and you would get some privacy. The bottom diameter of a grown 'Green Giant is 12' to 18' feet. Don't plant it closer to the fence than 10'. This gives you enough room behind the tree later when you have to replace the fence. You could fill in the spaces with smaller deciduous trees or shrubs. Maybe something with color interest. One tree that is used quite often is narrow, tall juniper which can be toppedat the desired height. Other alternatives, plant a mixtur of tall shrubs and small trees. A & M's Plant Answers has lists of recommended plants. This link takes you to the list of shrubs. Scroll down to the bottom to go to the tree links. http://plantanswers.tamu.edu/publications/beaumont/lgshrubs.html