Leyland Cypress vs. Hemlock vs. Thuja 'Green Giant' vs. 'Steeplechase' for Privacy Hedges

Choosing the Best Evergreen Screen

A homeowner in Massachusetts wants a fast, dense, low-maintenance privacy hedge in full sun next to a shed. The initial choice was between Leyland cypress and hemlock.

Why Not Leyland Cypress or Hemlock?

Both have significant pest and disease issues. Leyland cypress is prone to Seiridium and Botryosphaeria cankers; hemlocks suffer from woolly adelgid and decline in New England.

Recommended: Thuja 'Green Giant'

• Growth: 3–5 ft/year; matures at 50+ ft tall, narrow spread.
• Foliage: Deep lustrous green, fragrant.
• Adaptability: Zones 5–8, tolerates wet clay and drought once established.
• Resistance: Deer, bagworms, most pests/diseases; hardy to –25°F.
• Spacing: 5–6 ft for quick screen; 10–12 ft for individual trees.
• Maintenance: Can be trimmed to any height/width.

Alternative: Thuja 'Steeplechase'

A branch sport of 'Green Giant' discovered in 1990. Similar but:

• Denser, finer-textured, deeper green foliage.
• Grows ~2 ft/year; 14-year-old trees ~25 ft tall, 10 ft wide.
• Keeps tight pyramidal shape without shearing.
• Hardy to Zone 5; resistant to snow, ice, wind, deer, bagworms.
• Spacing: 6 ft for quick screen; 10 ft for specimen look.

Verdict

Either 'Green Giant' or 'Steeplechase' outperforms Leyland cypress and hemlock for a durable, attractive hedge in Massachusetts.