Does anyone know if there is a better plant than the arborvitae to plant in northeast for around the yard?

Question

I heard there is a fungus or something going around and that they are becoming harder to care for..just wondering..

Answer 1

Whenever you have a large concentration on one species in an area, the plant's natural enemies will grow in population to where it really knocks the plant population back. So it's always best to diversify.

I'm not keen on one species perimeter planting because it is so boring. You can achieve privacy and still retain interest by creating a tapestry using different height and type plants. You may need to have a designer help you or else you'll end up with a mish mash. Other plants to consider are Canadian hemlock, Chaemacyparis, Junipers, cedars, yew, privet, boxwood, holly, Mtn. laurel. Don't forget the deciduous plants for areas where some privacy loss is acceptable in winter months. There you have the wonderful flowering plant list from small flowering trees to flowering shrubs.