Native Plants

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.

rate this answer

Thursday - March 18, 2010
From: Conroe, TX
Region: Southwest
Topic: Privacy Screening
Title: Screen for highway noise in Conroe, Texas
Answered by: Nan Hampton
QUESTION:
I have 120' of fence line which backs up to a busy highway, and now there are plans to widen it to four lanes. Is there a native tree or shrub which could help dampen the noise and block out the view of the traffic?ANSWER:
It sounds like you need a tree/shrub that is evergreen and relatively dense. Here are some suggested trees that are evergreen and grow in Montgomery County or adjacent counties:
Juniperus virginiana (eastern redcedar) grows slowly up to 50 feet but can be pruned to form a hedge.
Prunus caroliniana (Carolina laurelcherry) fast growing up to 36 feet.
Pinus taeda (loblolly pine) fast growing up to 50 feet.
Ilex vomitoria (yaupon) slow growth rate to 25 feet.
Magnolia grandiflora (southern magnolia) moderate growth rate to 40 feet.
Ilex opaca (American holly) slow growth rate to 40 feet.
Morella cerifera (wax myrtle) moderate growth rate to 10 feet.
Here are photos of the above plants from our Image Gallery:
More Privacy Screening Questions
Trees for privacy screen in California
May 31, 2013 - Hi Mr. Smartypants,
We are first-time home-buyers of a cute little house and a relatively large lot in Pacific Grove, CA. Unfortunately the neighbors to the north have built a second story with a nic...
view the full question and answer
Decorative Trees for Scenic Bench in Fairhope IL
June 10, 2012 - I am looking for a recommendation for a pair of small trees (does not grow taller than 18-20 feet) that can provide shade on either side of a stone bench. The site is in full sun, western exposure an...
view the full question and answer
Need a shrub to conceal a privacy fence in Knightdale, NC.
August 03, 2011 - Could you recommend a medium-sized shrub/bush (max height of 6-7 feet) to plant along a privacy fence (purpose is to conceal the fence from the street view per HOA)? I live in Zone 8.
view the full question and answer
Neat and tidy, poolside in Austin Texas.
December 01, 2010 - I have a small section between our pool and fence (approx 3 feet wide). I would like to plant something native that obscures the fence but does not create a mess for the pool. The area gets sun most...
view the full question and answer
Native trees for privacy screen in Connecticut
November 21, 2008 - I am looking to replace a row of white pine trees with something else along the border between our yard and neighbor's yard. We only get afternoon sun and we need something that will grow to around ...
view the full question and answer
Support the Wildflower Center by Donating Online or Becoming a Member today. |