Native Plants
![](../_images/smarty_plants.gif)
Q. Who is Mr. Smarty Plants?
A: There are those who suspect Wildflower Center volunteers are the culpable and capable culprits. Yet, others think staff members play some, albeit small, role. You can torture us with your plant questions, but we will never reveal the Green Guru's secret identity.
Did you know you can access the Native Plant Information Network with your web-enabled smartphone?
Ask Mr. Smarty Plants is a free service provided by the staff and volunteers at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
![](../_images/mr_smarty_plants_logo_web_200w.jpg)
rate this answer
![](../_images/star_22.gif)
Sunday - October 12, 2008
From: Crockett, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Privacy Screening
Title: Native evergreens for privacy in Crockett, TX
Answered by: Barbara Medford
QUESTION:
I need advice on what tall evergreens I can plant along a fence line for privacy. I need trees that will be at minimum 8 to 10 feet tall at maturity, are aesthetically pleasing and provide privacy.ANSWER:
We are going to suggest native plants for your privacy fence, because that's what we do at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. Read our How-To Article on Using Native Plants to find out how much better for the environment it is to do so, and also that plants native to the area in which they are being grown will need less water, fertilizer and maintenance, because they are already adapted to the conditions there.
Although you mentioned trees, we are going to suggest shrubs. Most trees will get much taller than the height you are looking for, and most shrubs will tend to be denser for privacy and grow to about the right height.If you cannot find the one you select at a regular commercial nursery, go to our Native Plant Suppliers section, type your town and state in the "Enter Search Location" box and you will get a list of native plant nurseries, seed suppliers and landscape consultants in your general area. We would recommend that you do your planting in the Fall or late Winter, while the plants are semi-dormant. Here is a list of suggestions for your purpose; follow the link to the individual webpage on each plant for information.
More Privacy Screening Questions
Eight Foot Screen for Austin, TX
September 01, 2011 - I'm looking for a fast-growing shrub to "extend" the height of my fence and provide privacy in my yard in Austin. My lot is pretty much full sun and very dry, mostly clay soil. 8' is my goal. Than...
view the full question and answer
Drought tolerant privacy plants for Flagstaff AZ
March 19, 2013 - We need a fast growing drought tolerant tree that will grow in Flagstaff AZ/Parks AZ. Neighbors are hoarders and we want privacy fence to cover the mess. Any help would be greatly appreciated.
view the full question and answer
FAST GROWING PRIVACY PLANTS IN EL PASO, TEXAS
October 11, 2010 - Hello, First, I am totally ignorant of plants,trees planting,etc. However, I just moved to El Paso, Tx and find every home is surrounded by these hideous rock walls, which aren't nearly tall enough t...
view the full question and answer
Native evergreen for privacy screen
May 15, 2008 - I want to incorporate a tree in my landscaping near my house (10-15 feet) for privacy, what are the best trees that don't shed their leaves and have nice flowers and their roots wont destroy my found...
view the full question and answer
Dog-safe Privacy Screen for Ocala, FL
June 25, 2015 - Am desperately searching for fast growing privacy that would be non toxic to dogs in Ocala, Florida (zone 9 I think). Wanted Leland cypress but due to toxicity it won't work.
view the full question and answer
Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |