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Ninebark Diabolo - Would this make a good privacy hedge?

I would like to plant a natural fence to separate my yard from neighbors. I have seen Arbor Vitae used as well as Privets, however, I do not like the looks of these. Does anyone have any experience using Ninebark Diabolo as a privacy hedge? I see it grows 8-10' in height and 8-10' spread. I want to make sure it fills in nicely and can be trimmed tightly. I do have a smaller yard so I don't want it too overwhelming. I was considering hedge Boxwoods, but apparently in my zone, they sometimes can't take the winters. I live in Southern Wisconsin so I do need a hardy shrub. Let me know if anyone has any other experience or ideas. I do want it to be at least 6' but not too high, as I live in a ranch style home. I appreciate any feedback or ideas. Thank you in advance.

Public Comments

1. i say your best bet would be the arbor vitae. in your area they would get at least 10-12 feet tall,about a 4-5 spread. they are the lowest maintance plant and they stay in shape and full. you know that arbor vitae is a true cedar. they are the white cedar. what most people call cedar,is really a juniper. most you have to worry about the vitae's is spider mites. but if you fertilise in the fall and spray for mites in spring they will do well. arbor vitae make a great screen,and a wind break too.
2. I'm in the same boat, Shannon, but a little further north. I don't like the way arbor vitae look either, but you can't beat them for year-round privacy. Dogwoods might be interesting - they have cool red branches, which, according to the picture at the Jung's website (www.jungseed.com), look pretty darn cool. Too bad Jung's is sold out, but you might be able to find them elsewhere. I'm going with privets myself, because they get nice & dense (fast food restaurant behind my house; I don't want their garbage, noise, or prying eyes). I have read that you can pretty them up by training vines through them. Honeysuckle might be nice, too. Good luck!