Page 20 2024 Spring Home and Garden LINCOLN DAILY NEWS April 2024 Since they can grow up to 40 meters tall, natural native cypresses may be the better option. The arborvitae is a popular hedging or border plant for privacy. These are hybrid plants and can grow up to three feet per year in the right conditions. While it can be the right choice for privacy, use it with caution when you have a smaller space. With pines, some are fast growing, while others are considerably slower in growing to maturity. Pines are a great option for a mixed privacy border or windbreak. Fast growing pines include the Alepo, white pine and loblolly pine. Like with other evergreens, fast growing pines should only be planted in the appropriate environment since they can grow to very large sizes. Privets were once a very popular hedging choice. In recent years, they have decreased in popularity but can still be a good option for privacy. They are relatively easy to keep in check and can be a good choice when a neat and orderly hedge is required for privacy. Laurels like the cherry laurel are another popular hedging choice that grow quickly. They can create a hedge up to five meters high. Other laurels that could be considered for hedging are the Laurel Etna and Laurel Caucasia. Cotoneasters provide excellent options for informal privacy borders or formal hedging. They are dense and attractive, growing quickly to provide a screen and interest with blossoms and red berries. Some varieties work well as hedging but can also work well as stand alone plants in mixed varieties. Others spread over walls or fences to provide additional privacy. A wide range of Hollies works well for providing backyard privacy. Some traditional hollies provide spiky leaves, which can enhance garden security and red berries in winter. However, not all hollies are spiky. Some create neater planting or hedging. It may be worthwhile to look at the variety available. For example, a popular option for privacy hedging or screens is Nelly Stevens Holly. See these examples at https://www.youtube. com/watch?v=cLYy_W_fK_c Whether you decide to create a windbreak or provide privacy around your house or yard, remember that plants, trees and shrubs may be a good option. [Angela Reiners]
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