Hi,
I have a small backyard with very active neighbours that run a daycare. While i do have a 6ft wooden fence…its almost like not having one when my deck is 3ft high. Im trying to find some small trees that wont take over my yard.. but give me some privacy up top (see attached photo).. i would prefer evergreen but i wont be choosey.
Thanks for contacting Toronto Master Gardeners. This is a common question and luckily there are many choices for privacy trees. Fast growing evergreen trees include varieties of cedars (Thuja) and juniper (Juniperus). Please view this previous post on evergreens for more information:
https://www.torontomastergardeners.ca/wp-admin/post.php?post=13011&action=edit
There are also attractive native flowering trees such as service berries (Amelanchier spp.) witch hazel (Hamamelis virginiana), eastern redbud (Cercis canadensis), nannyberry (Viburnum lentago) and pagoda dogwood (Cornus alternifolia).
The organization LEAF helps property owners in Toronto plant trees and shrubs at a subsidized price. You will find information about LEAF’s services and the species of native trees they offer at the following site: https://www.yourleaf.org/toronto-homeowners
Other suggestions include Japanese tree lilac (Syringa reticulata) or smoke tree (Cotinus coggygria).