3 Reasons You Should Plant Arborvitae in Your Backyard Today

Chances are if you are getting new landscaping installed in your backyard somewhere in that quote, or landscape design, there are arborvitae. What exactly are arborvitae? In a nut shell, they are a tremendously popular, fast-growing evergreen tree. There are many types and some even range from different shades of green to gold. They are most often planted in a row of several. Arborvitae are definitely one of my favorite trees to plant and here are 3 reasons why I think you should plant some in your backyard.

1- Instant Privacy

First, as mentioned previously, arborvitae are normally planted in a hedge-like style with several of them planted in a single row. Due to their fast growing nature and their slender shape they are the best tree to plant for instant privacy or to hide something unpleasant in your backyard. To plant them for instant privacy install them around the perimeter of your backyard, or to save money, install them around the perimeter of the area you use most in your backyard to block that area from nosy neighbors or traffic. On the other hand, they are also a great barrier to block something undesirable in your backyard such as noisy pool equipment or an A/C unit.

2 - Alternative to a Privacy Fence

Second, similar to the privacy point, arborvitae make a good barrier. Thus, they can be used in lieu of a vinyl/wood/etc. privacy fence. There are many reasons you may choose, or be forced to choose, arborvitae instead of a privacy fence. The most common reason is many newer HOAs do not allow fences. Many HOAs only allow aluminum fences with spacing in between and that’s usually only when you are getting a pool installed. These aluminum fences are barely enough for privacy, thus many homeowners choose to plant arborvitae along the border of these fences so they can instill some seclusion from their neighbors. Another reason some homeowners choose arborvitae instead of a privacy fence is cost. It is generally cheaper to install a row of arborvitae instead of a vinyl or wood privacy fence. Another reason I have seen homeowners choose arborvitae versus a privacy fence is aesthetics. Some homeowners really want concealment in their backyard, but they do not like the look of privacy fencing and prefer the natural, green look of a row of arborvitae instead.

3 - No Leaf Shedding

Lastly, arborvitae are an evergreen tree, meaning they do not shed their leaves. No more cleaning up those pesky leaf messes in your backyard. This is especially appealing to anyone with a pool who does not keep a cover on it when not in use - no more cleaning leaves out of the pool! The other neat feature of arborvitae not shedding their leaves is they stay green (or gold) all year round! This means the privacy you are seeking will not disappear in the winter months as it would with deciduous trees or shrubs.

Now you know why arborvitae are a hot-ticket tree being installed in backyards everywhere. Whether you want instant privacy, you need an alternative to a privacy fence, or you want a break from deciduous trees dropping leaves in your backyard - get those arborvitae planted today! If you are looking to get arborvitae installed in your backyard and you live in the Metro-Detroit, MI area give us, Resilient Outdoor Living, a call today. We are here to take your call and give you a free estimate. Call us at the number below or fill out the form on the “contact” tab above. Happy landscaping!