Released Jan. 4, 2008
BENTONVILLE, Ark. - As zero lot lines become more common and lot sizes continue to shrink, many homeowners are seeking ways to increase privacy, says Mark Bray, a Benton County agent with the University of Arkansas Cooperative Extension Service.
U.S. Census data show the median home lot shrank from 10,000 square feet in 1990 to 8,612 square feet in 2006. "For many people with new homes, that means they’re a lot closer to their neighbor’s house," Bray said. Plus, homes that may have some privacy during the warmer months are exposed when deciduous trees drop their leaves.
Bray offers a simple answer: "Evergreen trees and shrubs make excellent screens and are a valuable addition to the landscape."
In addition to blocking a neighbor’s view of your yard, evergreen screens may also be used as outdoor walls to create privacy around a deck or hide an unsightly storage building.
Evergreen screens also absorb unwanted road noise and provide a wind breaks against winter winds.
"When selecting a screening plant, consider the desired size, how much maintenance the plant requires and whether you wish to achieve a formal or natural appearance," Bray said. "Plant the evergreens at a distance apart from each other to achieve the desired screening affect. Screens along a fence should be planted in a staggered pattern with taller plants toward the back to achieve a less formal appearance."
Two of the most commonly planted options for evergreen screens, Leyland cypress and redtip photinia, are not making the cut anymore due to fungal disease problems. However, there are a variety of alternatives to choose from that will grow in our area. Broadleaf evergreens include American holly, Nelle Stevens holly, Burford Chinese holly, Foster holly, Elaeagnus and Chinese photinia.
Needle evergreens suitable for screens include Eastern arborvitae, Oriental arborvitae, Arizona cypress, Japanese yew, Eastern red cedar and Atlantic white cedar.
For more information about any of the plants mentioned above or help selecting the appropriate screening plant for your location, contact your county extension office, or visit http://www.uaex.edu.
The Cooperative Extension Service is part of the U of A Division of Agriculture.
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http://www.uaex.edu/news/january2008/0104greenscreens.htm
Contact: Lamar James, (501) 671-2187, ljames@uaex.edu
