This Fast-Growing Pine Tree Is Perfect For Privacy Even In The Driest Climates

While there are benefits to living in a community and getting to know your neighbors, many homeowners like to have plenty of privacy as well. Although there are ways to make your yard more private, such as adding a privacy fence, growing various plants or trees to create a privacy hedge is also worth considering. One of the best trees that you can grow for this purpose is an eldarica pine. The eldarica pine, which some know as the Afghan pine, is a stunning pine tree that you can grow at home. It can serve as a hardy privacy hedge that will give you quite a bit more privacy in your front or backyard.

This pine tree can grow to heights of 80 feet tall and can reach widths of 25 to 30 feet, meaning that just a few well-placed trees will make a big impact. This pine tree is the perfect option for regions with drier climate conditions. It does a great job of adapting to and dealing with otherwise problematic heat and humidity conditions, while also withstanding wind well. It's one of the fastest-growing trees to plant for privacy in your yard and can gain 2 to 3 feet per year.

To grow this tree successfully, be aware that it tends to grow best in USDA hardiness zones 6 through 10. It's ideal for the desert and is commonly found in states such as California, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, Utah, and Texas. Fortunately, this tree is very easy to grow thanks to how tough and resilient it is. However, you'll want to ensure this tree gets at least six hours of full sunlight each day for it to grow its very best. You should also note that it needs well-draining soil. Heavy clay soil should be avoided since it has the potential to cause root rot, particularly if you're in an area where it tends to rain heavily. 

The eldarica pine should get a fair amount of regular water when you're first growing it but won't require as much later on, and you should avoid letting it get drenched too heavily. Another thing to remember is that you should aim to grow this tree at least 20 feet from other trees since it does take up a pretty good bit of space. Also, avoid planting it close to buildings and power lines to prevent potential hazards. 

If you want to get the most out of your eldarica pine tree, be aware that there are some drawbacks to it as well. Like other trees, it can experience pest infestations, particularly by aphids, borers, and moths. It may also attract diseases such as root rot and fungal diseases if it gets too much moisture. 

Also, be aware that this tree will attract animals to your yard. While you may like that it can help attract birds to your garden, it will also attract squirrels, which can potentially wreak havoc around the home and spread disease. In addition to this, these pine trees will shed a lot of needles, so you'll need to do some upkeep to keep your driveway and yard free from them. Despite the potential disadvantages, however, the eldarica pine tree has more positives than negatives and would be a great choice if you want to add increased privacy to your home.