Is THUJA PLICATA a good choice for privacy next to a wooden fence?

Question

I’m looking for a plant that can extend the hight if our wooden fence and I found THUJA PLICATA.

Is this a good choice for a small garden and how far away from the wooden fence should I plant them? Max height they will be trimmed to is 7-8 feet.

Many thanks

Answer 1

Thuja plicata, western red cedar (the species which is native to the US Pacific Northwest and naturalized in the UK) is a very large growing tree and not appropriate for your small garden.

But there is a smaller hybrid Thuja/arborvitae called “Green Giant” which is popular as hedge plant. This variety may still grow too big for your small garden.

Plant it at least 3 feet from the fence for a 5 year plan, preferably 6 feet or more on a 10 – 20 + year plan, to allow for foliar spread and maintenance access.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/arborvitae/grow-green-giant-arborvitae.htm

http://www.thujagreengiant.net/how-far-apart-do-you-plant-thuja-green-giant/

Depending on where you are located and availability (not sure what “l4zl0w” means) you may also consider, boxwood, privet, Japanese holly or other; or extend your fence height with a trellis and grow a vine like ivy to achieve the screening you need.