Fence-Free Privacy Solutions for Your Landscape

Trees and Shrubs

Looking to add privacy to your outdoor space without installing a traditional fence? Whether you’re enhancing a backyard retreat or simply want to block an unsightly view, we have everything you need to get started.

Why Go Fence-Free?

Although fences offer a quick fix, they can often feel harsh or restrictive. Instead, natural privacy solutions like trees, shrubs, and ornamental grasses provide a more inviting look. These living walls not only blend beautifully into the landscape but also grow and evolve with your yard over time.

Several lush green shrubs are planted in a neat row along a wooden fence, with trees and a well-maintained grassy lawn in the background.

Skip Laurel

A row of freshly planted evergreen shrubs lines a mulched garden bed beside a grassy lawn, with a landscaping truck and trees in the background.

Arborvitae

Switch Grass Shenandoah

Ornamental Grasses

Top Privacy Plant Options

When you’re ready to get started, stop by our Tree & Shrub Help Center to speak with a knowledgeable associate. We’ll help you choose the right plants for your space. Some excellent options include:

  • Arborvitae: Fast-growing and dense for immediate impact.
  • Holly: Evergreen with glossy leaves and year-round interest.
  • Leyland Cypress: A tall, uniform hedge solution.
  • Skip Laurel: Compact, shade-tolerant, and low-maintenance.
  • Ornamental Grasses: Add soft movement and seasonal texture.

Additionally, mixing heights and textures creates a layered, natural look that improves both privacy and design.

A neatly maintained sidewalk bordered by a row of small, dense evergreen shrubs and flowering bushes, with trees and more greenery in the background on a sunny day.

A row of holly bushes provides privacy from the street and sidewalk.

Design Tips for Do-It-Yourself Privacy

Creating a private space doesn’t require professional installation. In fact, you can make a big impact on your own. For example:

  • Layer different heights of plants for natural screening.
  • Use large containers or raised beds to add elevation.
  • Position plants around patios, decks, or seating areas for a cozy feel.
  • Incorporate trellises or arbors with climbing plants for vertical privacy.

Furthermore, consider your space’s sun exposure and watering needs as you plan.

long island planting service

Hicks Nurseries offers expert delivery and planting services.

Need Help Planting? Use Our PRO-PLANTING Service which includes:

  • In-depth home/site evaluation prior to the planting. (a $250 value!)
  • Our 5-star rated Landscapes planting crew will ensure that your selections are perfectly planted, exactly where you want them.
  • We double our plant guarantee when we do the work, to two years from the date of purchase.

Whether you’re DIY-ing or using our PRO-PLANTING service, Hicks Nurseries has the solutions you need to create the private outdoor space you’ve been dreaming of.

 

Additional Resources:

How to Plant Trees & Shrubs

Pro-Planting Services

SHOP Privacy Plants