Top 10 Plants for Privacy Screening in Zone 3

Creating a natural privacy screen in your garden not only offers seclusion but also adds a touch of beauty to your landscape. For those living in Zone 3, where winters can be harsh, it's essential to choose hardy plants that can withstand the cold. Here are the top 10 plants for privacy screening suitable for Zone 3:

1. Arborvitae "Emerald Green"

A popular choice for privacy hedges, the Arborvitae “Emerald Green” offers dense foliage that remains vibrant throughout the year.

2. Siberian Peashrub

This hardy shrub can withstand the cold temperatures of Zone 3 and provides a thick screen with its dense branches.

3. Black Hills Spruce

A variant of the white spruce, the Black Hills Spruce is perfect for creating a tall, dense barrier. Its conical shape and evergreen needles make it a favorite among gardeners in colder zones.

4. Caragana (Siberian Peashrub)

With its fast growth and adaptability to various soil types, the Caragana is perfect for creating a quick privacy screen.

5. Red Osier Dogwood

Known for its vibrant red stems in the winter, the Red Osier Dogwood is not only a great privacy plant but also adds a splash of color to the landscape. You can find and purchase the Red Osier Dogwood directly from Weaver Family Farms Nursery here.

6. Juniper "Skyrocket"

For those with limited space, the tall and slender Juniper "Skyrocket" is perfect. It offers dense foliage and can fit into narrow spaces.

7. Lilac Bush

While primarily known for its fragrant flowers, the Lilac bush can also serve as a dense screen. It's hardy and can thrive in Zone 3 climates.

8. Eastern Red Cedar

A native to North America, the Eastern Red Cedar is a robust evergreen suitable for privacy screening. Its dense foliage and resistance to pests make it a favorite. Check out the Eastern Red Cedar on Weaver Family Farms Nursery at this link.

9. Balsam Fir

With its classic conical shape and dense branches, the Balsam Fir is another excellent choice for privacy in colder zones.

10. Golden Glove Arborvitae

This small shrub that can actually reach up to 8ft tall when fully grown gives a golden color in different times of year like winter. It is very tough and easy to grow. Buy it here.


In conclusion, creating a natural privacy screen in Zone 3 is not only possible but can also be a delightful experience. With the right plants, you can enjoy both privacy and beauty in your garden. For a wide range of plants suitable for Zone 3 and other gardening needs, visit Weaver Family Farms Nursery.

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