It’s easy to overlook these reliable beauties when you’re thinking big about garden design.
But don’t be fooled—arborvitae are far from plain. I once worked with a client, a busy family hoping to turn their noisy backyard into a peaceful haven. We used arborvitae to create a soothing sense of privacy, and their space blossomed into a true sanctuary. Can you picture your own outdoor retreat, hugged by a green embrace? In my experience, these trees are the quiet workhorses that help any yard feel more inviting, organized, and alive.
How Can Arborvitae Become Your Ultimate Living Privacy Screen?
Sometimes all it takes to transform a backyard is to plant an intentional, living privacy screen. Arborvitae are wonderfully suited for this purpose—growing tall, dense, and lovely through every season. If your yard feels a little too exposed, these trees can quickly become your green shield, offering both beauty and seclusion.
- Pick your spot: Choose a line along your fence, deck, or outdoor sitting area where you’d like the most privacy.
- Mind your spacing: Plant arborvitae about 3-4 feet apart for a thick, overlapping wall of foliage.
- Care matters: Water deeply the first year, and mulch generously to help those roots feel at home.
I’ll never forget helping Jenny and Mark, a couple tired of their busy city street peeking into their patio. We planted a row of arborvitae just inside their fence, and within a year, their outdoor dinners felt private and peaceful—like a secret garden in the middle of daily bustle.
A little intention—and a touch of green—can make your space anything but ordinary.
Green Entrance Goals!
If you’re hoping to boost your home’s curb appeal in an instant, imagine lining your driveway with elegant rows of arborvitae. There’s nothing quite like being greeted by fresh green every time you arrive home.
First impressions really do matter, don’t they?
How to Build Your Own Backyard Sanctuary with Arborvitae
Yearning for a peaceful nook where you can unwind with a book or breathe deep on a sunny morning? Arborvitae has a magical way of carving out intimate, quiet spaces even in the busiest yards. Tuck a bench or hammock behind a screen of these evergreens, and you’ll find yourself with a personal retreat—one that feels both open and private.
One of my favorite projects was helping Samantha design a meditation spot just for herself. We clustered arborvitae in a gentle arc at one edge of her backyard, leaving a small opening dappled with morning light. The soft rustle of leaves, the sense of gentle protection—it became her go-to spot to recharge.
If you’d like to craft your own sanctuary, start by envisioning how you’d use the space. Want a cozy reading corner? A spot for afternoon tea? Use arborvitae to frame your area, and underplant with lavender or ferns for an extra layer of calm. Think about how the light moves across your yard, and let that guide your placement for both privacy and beauty.
A backyard doesn’t just hold flowers and furniture—it can cradle your dreams.
Dare to Play with Shadow and Light: Add Contrast with Black-Leaved Varieties
Imagine the subtle drama of deep, nearly-black foliage against a canvas of vibrant greens and silvery textures in your garden. That’s the beauty of black-leaved arborvitae: their rich, dark tones create a sense of depth that completely transforms the feel of an outdoor space.
Contrast isn’t just a design principle—it’s an invitation to see your landscape differently. I once worked with a client who longed for a modern, eye-catching border for her patio; by weaving black-leaved arborvitae among silvery lamb’s ear and chartreuse hosta, we achieved a composition full of “wow” moments. Not only did the dark foliage bring weight and focus, but it also set the stage for other textures and shapes to shine.
Have you ever noticed how a shadow can make light seem brighter? The same principle applies here. Black-leaved varieties offer more than just color; they provide visual relief and highlight the dynamic interplay of elements. Try pairing them with grasses or flowering shrubs for a truly artful effect—and let your garden surprise you with its bold personality.
Seasonal Magic
Your landscape can sing all year when you use the evergreen charm of arborvitae as a backdrop for vibrant perennials and spring bulbs. Layer tulips in front for instant spring color, or nestle autumn-blooming asters nearby for a seasonal contrast that always feels fresh.
Every change in season becomes a celebration.
How Can Arborvitae Transform the Energy in Your Space?
In Feng Shui, the placement of plants like arborvitae can influence the flow of chi, or energy, guiding it with intention. I’ve had the pleasure of helping clients create distinct entryways that radiate positive energy by simply repositioning their arborvitae groupings.
If you’re curious how to use these evergreens to their fullest, consider:
- Placing arborvitae near entrances for a sense of protection and welcome
- Using them along pathways to gently channel the movement of energy
- Marking a sitting area with a few well-placed plants for natural serenity
A garden that feels balanced and harmonious is a joy every time you step outside. Try experimenting—just a single shift in placement can open up the atmosphere and invite new possibilities. Why not let nature help you set the mood?
7. Elevate Your Walkways with Decorative Borders
There’s something magical about strolling down a garden path hemmed in with the lush, evergreen presence of arborvitae. The moment you set foot on such a walkway, the ordinary becomes *extraordinary*—the space feels distinct, *intentional*, and almost like a path less traveled in a storybook.
I once worked with a client, Miriam, who dreamed of transforming her plain backyard into a sanctuary. By planting a natural border of arborvitae along her winding stone path, we not only gave her garden structure but also invited a sense of *serenity and privacy*. The trick is to plant them close enough for a crisp line but leave enough room for each to flourish. We layered low-growing perennials alongside for added texture, creating gentle transitions from walkway to lawn.
When you craft borders with living greenery, consider how the season’s shifting light will paint new shadows along your path. Have you ever noticed how a simple border can become a grand entrance?
Let your walkway invite surprise—and maybe a little wonder—at every step.
8. Frame Your Focal Points
Every garden deserves a spotlight moment. By framing your fountain, sculpture, or even a favorite bench with arborvitae, you create a living frame that highlights what is special.
*What feature in your own garden whispers for attention?* Sometimes, a touch of *green architecture* is all you need to turn an everyday scene into an enchanting focal point.
9. Layer for Depth and Dimension
One of the most effective ways to make your garden feel larger and more dynamic is to play with height and texture. Think of your green space as a painting, with arborvitae forming the bold background strokes. When I helped a client named Lucas revamp his petite backyard, we layered shrubs, flowing perennials, and low-growing herbs to create the illusion of depth.
Try introducing layers with these easy techniques:
- Plant tall arborvitae as a backdrop or living fence
- Add a middle layer of flowering shrubs for seasonal color
- Underplant with low-growing groundcovers for soft contrast
By combining these heights, you’ll achieve that sought-after “garden canopy” effect, even in the smallest spaces. *Let your plantings guide the eye on a journey, not a straight line.*
10. Add Visual Interest with Varying Heights
Why settle for a one-note garden when you can create visual impact by playing with the heights of your arborvitae? Tiering different sizes makes even a small space feel thoughtfully designed—almost like a living sculpture.
When I worked with a client who felt her garden looked “flat,” we softened the lines by tucking tall, narrow arborvitae at the back and clustering shorter, rounded ones at the front. The difference was immediate—her yard suddenly had energy and balance, drawing the eye all around instead of straight to the fence. Think of your greenery as a gallery installation, and don’t be afraid to mix it up!
Sometimes, a little height difference is all it takes to make your garden truly unforgettable.
11. Fill Bare Spaces with Dwarf Varieties
Dwarf arborvitae are my go-to solution for those awkward empty spots that beg for a bit of life or volume.
They’re perfect for:
- Bordering narrow walkways
- Softening the edges of patios
It’s amazing how much character these compact evergreens add without taking over the scene!
12. Create a Natural Backdrop
Nothing sets the stage for vibrant flowers and ornamental grasses quite like a lush canvas of arborvitae. The cool, deep green creates the ideal contrast, letting every petal and leaf in front sparkle just a bit brighter.
To build your backdrop, start by spacing your arborvitae in a gentle curve behind your main beds. Make sure to keep them at a consistent height for that seamless “green wall” effect, but don’t hesitate to leave occasional gaps—it adds authenticity and avoids looking too manicured. This trick works wonders for both cottage and modern garden styles, and it’s especially lovely in early spring when color starts to return.
Last fall, I helped a client, Robert, transform his view of the patio by lining the back with tall arborvitae. Within weeks, his cheerful zinnias and purple coneflowers looked almost theatrical against the new emerald green “curtain.” He said it changed his whole experience of sitting outdoors, especially on Saturday mornings when the crisp-scented air drifted through.
Imagine the visual drama of your blooms against a living, green backdrop—it’s a simple step that creates pure magic.
13. Use as Low-Maintenance Shrubs
Looking for a true set-it-and-forget-it kind of plant? Arborvitae is your friend. These low-maintenance evergreens thrive even in the sunniest, rockiest corners of your landscape—no fancy fuss required. If you’ve ever wished your garden would just take care of itself, *this is as close as it gets*.
One of my clients, a wonderfully busy teacher juggling work and family, needed something beautiful but nearly indestructible for her drought-prone rock garden. We chose arborvitae together, and—honestly—it was a relief! With just a little water during the first season and annual mulching, these shrubs filled the space with effortless greenery and asked for almost nothing in return. They simply grow, filling out with lush foliage that looks carefully cultivated even when you’re, well, not doing much at all.
Sometimes, the best part of gardening is letting nature do the heavy lifting.
Try tucking arborvitae into those spots where other shrubs struggle. You’ll be surprised by how resilient and forgiving they can be.
14. Explore Unusual Shapes
Ready to break up the visual routine? Unusual shapes in arborvitae can bring a playful spark where you least expect it.
Why not try a globular or spiral form for a touch that feels fresh and a little unexpected?
15. The Vertical Secret: Unlock New Garden Dimensions
When space is limited but your love of green is boundless, discover the vertical potential of arborvitae. I once worked with a client who dreamed of transforming her tiny patio into a leafy hideaway. We created a vertical garden wall using slender arborvitae, and the result was stunning—lush privacy and zero sacrifice in square footage.
- Plant arborvitae in custom vertical planters for living screens that thrive in narrow urban spaces.
- Combine varying heights and textures for a mosaic effect—the eye loves contrast!
- Don’t forget—drip irrigation makes maintaining upright plantings a breeze.
Sometimes, the best garden view is the one that makes you look up.
16. Shape a Living Wall
Transforming a plain fence or bordering wall with a living wall of arborvitae can feel like inviting the magic of a hidden woodland right into your own backyard. There’s something truly special about walking outside and being softly wrapped in that fresh, leafy hush—almost like nature has pressed the “reset” button on your day.
The process is surprisingly straightforward: Choose upright varieties of arborvitae and plant them closely together along your chosen surface. Guide their growth using light, gentle ties to a trellis or wire, and keep their base mulched to retain moisture. With a little patience, those shoots will knit together into an unbroken tapestry of green, creating not just privacy, but a living piece of art you can shape through gentle pruning. I often suggest weaving in a few trailing vines for extra softness.
I once worked with a client who dreamed of turning her bare patio wall into a sanctuary. Over one spring, we designed a layered living wall that not only gave her “breathing room” from nearby neighbors but also became her favorite reading nook—even on windy days, the soft rustle of the leaves was all she could hear.
Have you ever wished you could add instant calm to your outdoor space?
Lush, vibrant, and oh-so-soothing—a living wall is more than just a privacy screen; it’s a daily dose of green delight.
17. Go Formal with Symmetrical Planting
There’s a timeless elegance in symmetry. When I arrange arborvitae in precise, mirrored patterns, even the most modest garden takes on the feel of a stately retreat. Think tiny Versailles, built from soft green spires.
If you’re aiming for instant polish, just line up your arborvitae in even rows or circles—sometimes, the easiest solutions are the most striking.
Order restores calm in any landscape.
18. Mix It Up with Colorful Companions
Why settle for just one note when you can play a whole garden symphony? Pairing arborvitae with vibrant perennials and flowering shrubs instantly multiplies the depth and vibrancy of your landscape.
- Contrast textures: Try soft, feathery astilbe or broad-leafed hostas set against the neat, vertical lines of arborvitae.
- Add year-round color: Underplant with spring bulbs like tulips or summer-blooming coneflowers—the green backdrop makes those colors pop.
- Layer heights and shapes: Let cascading spirea spill in front, or set a row of low boxwoods for a formal edge with a playful twist.
Does your garden need a little spark, or maybe a new sense of dimension?
Mixing textures and hues with your arborvitae will keep things lively and fresh—whether you’re cheering up a front path or reinventing a quiet corner. Every color adds personality; every layer tells a story.
19. Embrace the Golden Glow
Let’s talk about the *sunshine* you can add to your garden with Golden Globe Arborvitae. Their golden foliage doesn’t just brighten a bed—it draws attention, casting a warm, happy glow that simply feels like a cheerful hello every time I see them. I often think, “Why wouldn’t you want a little sparkle in your landscape?”
This is an instant mood-lifter for those shadier, overlooked corners.
For best results, tuck these golden beauties near paths, entryways, or even in a mix of green and violet perennials for stunning contrast. I always advise double-checking your soil—well-drained is a must for their health. Pair them with lavender or heuchera to let their *glow gently* spill across the garden canvas. Are you worried about color clashing? Don’t be—their soft yellow tones play surprisingly well with a broad palette.
Once, I worked with a client hoping to transform a shaded entry that always felt forgotten. After we introduced a trio of Golden Globe Arborvitae, that spot became the highlight of their arrival home.
Sometimes, just a touch of gold is all it takes to welcome warmth outdoors.
Use Containers for Flexibility
Want to try something a little more *portable*? Try popping your arborvitae into large, bold containers. You can shift them around as your mood or the sun changes—now that’s flexibility. I love the *freedom* this brings to patios and decks.
It’s amazing what a bit of greenery in a pot can do—*instant charm* and a fresh look anytime you like.
One of my favorite memories is helping a client create a living, movable screen for their patio using container arborvitae. They loved being able to rearrange their cozy retreat for each season.
