Patio privacy ideas?

Personally, I think the more solid the tree (like the Cyprus), the more it looks like you're trying to block out the view, whereas there are trees that grow somewhat rapidly and are not as dense which provide enough privacy without being so... overbearing.

We've used something called a Silver Sheen tree (https://srinteriors.files.wordpress.com/2011/06/p1020508.jpg) which offers the best of both. I don't know if it grows well in your area or not, but it's nice because I believe it's drought tolerant as well as pretty fast growing.

Another issue with cyprus trees are that because they are so dense, they capture their own fallout and are havens for insects and spiders. They just become VERY nasty trees if they are not well taken care of, washed off, trimmed, blown out etc.

Another alternative I would like to suggest is a bit of an asymmetrical design combining different ideas such as maybe a tree here, then next to it a tapered or angled lattice with some small vines growing around/on it. Not thick ivy but just enough to provide a little extra privacy and greenery tying it together. When you're doing something one just one area, I've found it looks nicest when you blend varying sized elements together to make it look as little like a solid walled fence as possible- more organic if you will.

We love our neighbors, but love our privacy more.

Leland Cyprus grow quickly. Line them up in a row about 3 feet in between
then in the space between them put in another about 3 feet out.
in a few years you'll be on your way to privacy.

In the mean time put in a pergola, and on the end of the pergola built
a decorative wall. We have decorative walls on our pergola, not because
we needed the privacy -- as our densly planted property line provides
ultimate privacy, but we wanted to create an outside room.

I'll get you a couple of examples of end walls for pergola.

One of your posts says you are in PA so you'd have to find a species of tree similar what is being suggested that will grow in your area. The problem I have with cedars is they are mosquito traps (assuming you have them down there). As for a pergola, that's more of a substantial structure that will likely invoke building codes, permits, etc. You would also want to consider how any 'aerial structure' impacts on the light entering the house from that side.

I dislike store-bought lattice (1/4" x 1 1/2" or whatever). I find it flimsy and poorly built. I would research a privacy wall using thicker lumber in a self-built lattice or other decorative open design. You can also incorporate decorative panels into the design. Google 'Paul Lafrance Privacy Walls' - he's a contractor with a TV show that has some really interesting designs.
BTW - nice looking neighbourhood.

Leland Cypress may not be what you want.

Problems they will, and can have.

1. If planted close together, there will be dead areas where the trees grow together (I believe this is a common issue with most all Cypress trees).

2. They cannot take a heavy snow , or ice, load.

3. Shallow root system makes them prone to fall over in high winds, or under heavy loads.

4. They are not tall and narrow like the Italian Cypress, so they will take up a lot more room.

5. They can, and will, grow to heights of 50 feet (this is not so good).


After having several fall ON my house, I helped my neighbor remove those he had planted.