Ficus Hedge: Expert Tips and California Design Insights

Introduction

A ficus hedge represents one of the fastest, most effective privacy solutions available to Southern California homeowners. Known for its dense evergreen foliage, rapid growth rate, and classic "Hollywood" aesthetic, the ficus hedge has been the go-to choice for creating living privacy screens in Los Angeles, Glendale, Pasadena, and throughout the region for decades.

Whether you're blocking an unwanted view, creating a sound barrier from street noise, or simply defining your property boundaries with elegant greenery, a properly installed and maintained ficus hedge delivers results faster than almost any alternative. With growth rates reaching up to 24 inches per year, you can achieve substantial privacy in just 1-2 years rather than waiting a decade for slower-growing alternatives.

At BuildCal, we've been designing outdoor spaces since 2010—over 14 years of hands-on work right here in Glendale, CA and surrounding neighborhoods. Our team includes designers and technicians certified by the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA)—every project we complete is documented with before-and-after photos. We use trusted local materials and select plants that thrive in California's Mediterranean climate, ensuring your landscape lasts longer and needs less maintenance.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about ficus hedges in California, including species selection, planting specifications, maintenance requirements, common problems and solutions, cost considerations, and how BuildCal can help you create the perfect privacy hedge for your property.

What Is a Ficus Hedge?

A ficus hedge consists of multiple ficus trees planted in a row at close spacing, creating a dense, continuous privacy screen. The most common species used for hedging in Southern California is Ficus nitida (also known as Ficus retusa or Indian Laurel Fig), prized for its small, glossy leaves, dense branching structure, and tolerance for aggressive pruning.

Ficus Nitida Characteristics

Botanical Classification: Ficus nitida (Ficus microcarpa var. nitida)

Common Names:

•Indian Laurel Fig

•Ficus Nitida

•Chinese Banyan

•Curtain Fig

Growth Characteristics:

•Height: 10-30 feet (can be maintained at any height through pruning)

•Width: 5-10 feet (naturally, can be pruned narrower)

•Growth Rate: Up to 24 inches per year in optimal conditions

•Lifespan: 50+ years with proper care

Appearance:

•Leaves: Small (2-4 inches), oval, dark green, glossy

•Trunk: Smooth, greyish-white bark

•Foliage: Dense, evergreen year-round

•Form: Naturally upright, easily shaped through pruning

Climate Adaptability:

•Thrives in USDA Zones 9-11 (perfect for Southern California)

•Heat-tolerant (handles intense summer sun)

•Moderate drought tolerance once established

•Salt-tolerant (suitable for coastal areas)

Why Ficus Hedges Are Popular in California

Fast Privacy: With growth rates up to 24 inches annually, ficus hedges provide substantial privacy within 1-2 years of installation, compared to 5-10 years for slower-growing alternatives like podocarpus or boxwood.

Dense Screening: The small leaves and dense branching create a solid visual barrier with minimal gaps, effectively blocking views and reducing noise transmission.

Year-Round Greenery: As evergreens, ficus hedges maintain their appearance throughout all seasons, unlike deciduous options that lose leaves in winter.

Formal Aesthetic: Ficus hedges can be precisely shaped and maintained, creating the classic, manicured "Hollywood" look associated with upscale Southern California properties.

Adaptability: Ficus trees tolerate a wide range of conditions—full sun to partial shade, various soil types, urban pollution, and coastal salt spray—making them versatile for different properties.

Cost-Effective: Compared to installing masonry walls or high-quality fencing, ficus hedges typically cost 30-50% less initially, while providing a living, natural alternative.

How to Plan Your Ficus Hedge

Proper planning ensures your ficus hedge meets your privacy goals while avoiding common pitfalls like root damage to hardscaping or inadequate spacing.

Determine Your Goals

Privacy Height: How tall does your hedge need to be? Consider:

•Eye-level screening (6-8 feet) for ground-floor privacy

•Second-story screening (12-15 feet) for multi-level homes

•Complete screening (15-20+ feet) for tall neighboring structures

Coverage Length: Measure the linear footage you need to screen. This determines how many trees you'll need based on spacing.

Timeline: How quickly do you need privacy?

•Immediate (plant larger specimens at closer spacing)

•1-2 years (standard approach with 15-24 inch box trees)

•3-5 years (budget approach with smaller trees)

Maintenance Tolerance: How much ongoing maintenance are you willing to commit to?

•High maintenance: Formal hedge with frequent shaping (4-6 times per year)

•Moderate maintenance: Informal hedge with seasonal pruning (2-3 times per year)

•Low maintenance: Natural form with minimal pruning (1-2 times per year)

Site Assessment

Sun Exposure: Ficus hedges perform best in full sun (6+ hours daily) but tolerate partial shade. More sun generally means faster, denser growth.

Soil Conditions: Ficus trees adapt to various soil types but prefer well-draining soil. Heavy clay or poorly draining soil may require amendment or raised planting.

Space Available: Measure the distance from your property line or planting location to:

•Structures (house, garage, pool equipment)

•Hardscaping (patios, walkways, driveways)

•Underground utilities (water, sewer, electrical, gas)

•Overhead clearance (power lines, eaves)

Root Barrier Considerations: If planting within 10 feet of hardscaping or structures, plan for root barriers to prevent damage.

Irrigation Access: Ensure you can provide consistent water, especially during establishment (first 1-2 years).

Spacing Calculations

Proper spacing balances coverage speed with long-term manageability.

Standard Spacing: 3-5 Feet Apart

•Best for: Most residential applications

•Timeline: Full privacy in 2-3 years

•Advantages: Trees have room to develop, easier maintenance access

•Tree quantity: Divide linear footage by 4 (average spacing)

•Example: 40-foot hedge ÷ 4 feet = 10 trees needed

Close Spacing: 2-3 Feet Apart

•Best for: Faster coverage, narrow spaces

•Timeline: Full privacy in 1-2 years

•Advantages: Quicker results, denser initial appearance

•Disadvantages: More trees required (higher cost), more competition for resources

•Tree quantity: Divide linear footage by 2.5

•Example: 40-foot hedge ÷ 2.5 feet = 16 trees needed

Wide Spacing: 5-7 Feet Apart

•Best for: Budget-conscious projects, informal screening

•Timeline: Full privacy in 3-4 years

•Advantages: Lower initial cost, trees develop fuller canopies

•Disadvantages: Slower coverage, may always show some gaps

•Tree quantity: Divide linear footage by 6

•Example: 40-foot hedge ÷ 6 feet = 7 trees needed

Instant Privacy: 1-2 Feet Apart

•Best for: Immediate screening needs, high-budget projects

•Timeline: Immediate to 6 months

•Advantages: Instant results

•Disadvantages: Very high cost, difficult maintenance access, potential overcrowding

•Tree quantity: Divide linear footage by 1.5

•Example: 40-foot hedge ÷ 1.5 feet = 27 trees needed

Tree Size Selection

The size of trees you purchase affects both initial cost and timeline to privacy.

5-Gallon Containers

•Height: 3-5 feet

•Cost: $30-$60 each

•Timeline to privacy: 3-4 years

•Best for: Budget projects, patient homeowners

15-Gallon Containers

•Height: 5-7 feet

•Cost: $75-$150 each

•Timeline to privacy: 2-3 years

•Best for: Standard residential projects

24-Inch Box

•Height: 8-12 feet

•Cost: $200-$400 each

•Timeline to privacy: 1-2 years

•Best for: Faster results, higher budget

36-Inch Box and Larger

•Height: 12-20+ feet

•Cost: $500-$2,000+ each

•Timeline to privacy: Immediate to 1 year

•Best for: Instant privacy, luxury projects

At BuildCal, we help you select the optimal combination of tree size and spacing based on your budget, timeline, and site conditions. Call +1 (818) 303-1570 for a free consultation and detailed project estimate.

How to Plant a Ficus Hedge

Proper installation is critical for long-term success. While experienced DIYers can plant ficus hedges, professional installation ensures proper spacing, depth, soil preparation, and root barrier installation.

Best Planting Time in California

Spring (March-May): Ideal planting season

•Trees establish roots before summer heat

•Full growing season ahead for development

•Moderate temperatures reduce transplant stress

Fall (September-November): Second-best option

•Cooler temperatures ease establishment

•Winter rains support root development

•Trees ready for vigorous spring growth

Avoid Summer (June-August): High stress period

•Intense heat stresses newly planted trees

•Requires more frequent watering

•Higher risk of transplant failure

Avoid Winter (December-February): Slow growth period

•Trees remain dormant, slow to establish

•Cold temperatures can damage tropical species

•Wet soil conditions complicate planting

Site Preparation

1. Mark the Hedge Line

•Use stakes and string to establish straight line

•Measure and mark spacing for each tree

•Verify property lines and setback requirements

•Check for underground utilities (call 811)

2. Excavate Planting Trench or Holes

•Dig holes 2-3 times wider than root ball

•Depth should equal root ball height (not deeper)

•For continuous hedge, consider excavating trench

•Remove rocks, debris, and old roots

3. Improve Soil if Needed

•Test drainage by filling hole with water

•If water remains after 12 hours, improve drainage

•Amend heavy clay with compost and sand

•Add organic matter to sandy soil

4. Install Root Barriers (if applicable)

•Essential within 10 feet of hardscaping or structures

•Use commercial root barrier material (HDPE plastic)

•Install 24-36 inches deep

•Extend 2-3 feet beyond hedge ends

Planting Process

1. Position Trees

•Place trees in holes at marked spacing

•Ensure root ball top is level with surrounding grade

•Align trees for straight hedge line

•Step back and verify visual alignment

2. Backfill

•Use native soil (amended if necessary)

•Fill around root ball, eliminating air pockets

•Tamp gently to settle soil

•Do not bury trunk deeper than original planting depth

3. Create Water Basins

•Build 3-4 inch soil berm around each tree

•Basin should extend to drip line

•Helps direct water to root zone

4. Water Thoroughly

•Saturate root zone immediately after planting

•Water should penetrate 12-18 inches deep

•Allow to drain, then water again

5. Mulch

•Apply 2-3 inches of organic mulch

•Keep mulch 3-4 inches away from trunk

•Mulch conserves moisture and moderates soil temperature

6. Stake if Necessary

•Stake trees in windy locations or if top-heavy

•Use flexible ties that won't damage bark

•Remove stakes after 6-12 months

Irrigation System Installation

Consistent watering is essential, especially during establishment. BuildCal recommends installing drip irrigation for ficus hedges:

Drip Irrigation Advantages:

•Delivers water directly to root zone

•Reduces water waste through evaporation

•Prevents fungal diseases associated with overhead watering

•Can be automated with timer for consistency

•More efficient than hand-watering

System Components:

•Mainline tubing along hedge

•Emitters at each tree (2-4 per tree depending on size)

•Pressure regulator and filter

•Automatic timer for scheduled watering

•Flush valve for system maintenance

For professional irrigation system design and installation, explore our irrigation services.

How to Care for Your Ficus Hedge

Proper maintenance keeps your ficus hedge dense, healthy, and attractive while preventing common problems.

Watering Requirements

Establishment Period (First 1-2 Years):

•Water deeply 2-3 times per week during growing season

•Reduce to once weekly during cooler months

•Soil should remain consistently moist but not waterlogged

•Deep watering encourages deep root development

Established Hedges (After 2 Years):

•Water deeply once weekly during summer

•Reduce to every 10-14 days during cooler months

•Adjust based on weather (more during heat waves, less during rain)

•Mature hedges have moderate drought tolerance

Signs of Underwatering:

•Leaf yellowing and drop

•Wilting during heat

•Slowed growth

•Branch dieback

Signs of Overwatering:

•Leaf yellowing (similar to underwatering)

•Root rot

•Fungal growth at base

•Soft, mushy roots

Fertilization

Timing: Fertilize 2-3 times per year

•Early spring (March-April): Promotes vigorous spring growth

•Mid-summer (June-July): Supports continued growth

•Early fall (September): Strengthens trees before winter

Fertilizer Type:

•Balanced formula (e.g., 10-10-10 or 15-15-15)

•Slow-release granular for consistent feeding

•Organic options (compost, aged manure) for sustainable approach

Application:

•Follow package directions for amount based on tree size

•Spread evenly around drip line

•Water thoroughly after application

•Avoid fertilizing late fall/winter (encourages tender growth vulnerable to cold)

Pruning and Shaping

Regular pruning is essential for maintaining ficus hedges. Unpruned ficus trees quickly become overgrown, losing their hedge form.

Pruning Frequency:

•Formal hedge: Every 6-8 weeks during growing season (4-6 times per year)

•Informal hedge: Every 2-3 months (2-4 times per year)

•Minimal maintenance: Twice per year (spring and fall)

Best Pruning Times:

•Spring (March-April): Major shaping, promotes vigorous regrowth

•Summer (June-August): Maintenance pruning to control size

•Fall (September-October): Final shaping before winter

•Avoid winter pruning: Stimulates tender growth vulnerable to cold

Pruning Techniques:

Shearing: Creates formal, geometric hedge

•Use hedge shears or electric trimmer

•Cut to desired shape (typically flat top, vertical sides)

•Taper sides slightly (wider at bottom) for better light penetration

•Remove no more than 1/3 of growth at one time

Selective Pruning: Creates more natural appearance

•Use hand pruners to selectively remove branches

•Cut back to lateral branches (not mid-branch)

•Thin interior to improve air circulation

•Maintains more irregular, natural form

Rejuvenation Pruning: Restores overgrown hedges

•Cut back severely (up to 50%) in early spring

•Trees will resprout vigorously from old wood

•Requires patience (6-12 months for recovery)

•May need to do in stages over 2-3 years for very overgrown hedges

Pruning Tips:

•Keep pruning tools sharp for clean cuts

•Sanitize tools between trees to prevent disease spread

•Prune on overcast days to prevent sun scald on newly exposed branches

•Water well after major pruning to support regrowth

Pest and Disease Management

Ficus hedges in Southern California face several pest and disease challenges.

Common Pests:

Ficus Whitefly

•Symptoms: White, moth-like insects on undersides of leaves; sticky honeydew; sooty mold

•Treatment: Horticultural oil spray, systemic insecticides, natural predators

•Prevention: Maintain tree health, avoid over-fertilizing

Thrips

•Symptoms: Silvered or bronzed leaves, distorted new growth

•Treatment: Insecticidal soap, spinosad-based products

•Prevention: Adequate watering, avoid drought stress

Scale Insects

•Symptoms: Small, immobile bumps on stems and leaves; honeydew; sooty mold

•Treatment: Horticultural oil, systemic insecticides

•Prevention: Regular inspection, prune out heavily infested branches

Ficus Eye-Spot Midge (Emerging Pest)

•Symptoms: Leaf spots, premature leaf drop, reduced vigor

•Treatment: Limited options; maintain tree health

•Prevention: Not yet well-established

•Note: Introduced to Southern California; expected to spread (Source: UC IPM)

Common Diseases:

Anthracnose (Fungal Disease)

•Symptoms: Brown or black leaf spots, defoliation, twig dieback

•Treatment: Copper-based fungicides, improve air circulation

•Prevention: Avoid overhead watering, prune for airflow, remove fallen leaves

Root Rot (Phytophthora)

•Symptoms: Yellowing leaves, wilting, branch dieback, tree decline

•Treatment: Improve drainage, reduce watering, fungicide drenches (limited effectiveness)

•Prevention: Plant in well-draining soil, avoid overwatering

Sooty Mold

•Symptoms: Black, powdery coating on leaves (grows on honeydew from pests)

•Treatment: Control underlying pest problem; wash off mold with water

•Prevention: Manage whiteflies, aphids, and scale insects

Emerging Fungal Disease (Serious Concern)

•A new, deadly fungal strain is affecting ficus trees throughout Southern California

•Tens of thousands of mature trees are susceptible

•Kills at alarming speeds

•Source: SGV Tribune, Daily Breeze (2017)

•Action: Monitor trees closely; consult certified arborist if symptoms appear

For professional pest and disease management, BuildCal provides comprehensive maintenance services including regular monitoring, treatment, and preventive care.

Common Ficus Hedge Problems and Solutions

Understanding common issues helps you address them quickly before they become serious.

Problem: Slow Growth or Stunted Appearance

Possible Causes:

•Insufficient water during establishment

•Poor soil drainage

•Inadequate fertilization

•Root competition from nearby trees

•Compacted soil

Solutions:

•Increase watering frequency and depth

•Improve soil drainage with amendments

•Apply balanced fertilizer

•Aerate compacted soil

•Remove competing vegetation

Problem: Leaf Yellowing and Drop

Possible Causes:

•Overwatering or underwatering

•Nutrient deficiency (especially nitrogen)

•Root rot

•Transplant shock

•Seasonal leaf drop (normal in small amounts)

Solutions:

•Adjust watering schedule based on soil moisture

•Apply nitrogen-rich fertilizer

•Improve drainage if root rot suspected

•Be patient with newly planted trees (some leaf drop normal)

•Check for pests or diseases

Problem: Gaps or Thin Areas in Hedge

Possible Causes:

•Inadequate light penetration to lower branches

•Overpruning

•Disease or pest damage

•Poor initial spacing

•Shading from structures or other plants

Solutions:

•Prune to allow light to interior and lower branches

•Taper hedge sides (wider at bottom)

•Treat pest or disease issues

•Fill gaps with additional trees if spacing too wide

•Remove or trim plants blocking light

Problem: Root Damage to Hardscaping

Possible Causes:

•Trees planted too close to structures without root barriers

•Aggressive root growth seeking water

•Poor site selection

Solutions:

•Install root barriers (can be done after planting but more difficult)

•Root pruning (temporary solution, requires ongoing maintenance)

•Relocate hedge if damage is severe

•Accept some root management as ongoing maintenance

Prevention:

•Plan for root barriers during initial installation

•Maintain adequate distance from structures (10+ feet ideal)

•Provide consistent irrigation to reduce water-seeking roots

Problem: Hedge Becoming Too Wide

Possible Causes:

•Insufficient pruning

•Natural growth habit

•Excessive fertilization

Solutions:

•Increase pruning frequency

•Hard prune sides back to desired width in spring

•Reduce or eliminate fertilization

•Consider rejuvenation pruning if severely overgrown

Problem: Top of Hedge Dying Back

Possible Causes:

•Drought stress

•Root damage

•Disease

•Severe pruning shock

Solutions:

•Increase watering

•Inspect roots for damage or rot

•Treat for diseases if present

•Prune dead material; healthy regrowth should occur from lower branches

Ficus Hedge vs. Other Privacy Options

How does a ficus hedge compare to alternatives?

Ficus Hedge vs. Masonry Wall

Ficus Hedge Advantages:

•Lower initial cost (typically 40-60% less)

•Living, natural appearance

•Provides wildlife habitat

•Softer visual impact

•No building permits typically required

Masonry Wall Advantages:

•Immediate, complete privacy

•No maintenance required

•Permanent solution

•Blocks sound more effectively

•No root or plant health concerns

Best Choice: Ficus hedge for budget-conscious projects, natural aesthetic, and properties where walls are restricted or undesirable.

Ficus Hedge vs. Wooden Fence

Ficus Hedge Advantages:

•More attractive, natural appearance

•Increases property value more than fencing

•Provides environmental benefits

•Can grow taller than typical fence height limits

•Softer, more elegant aesthetic

Wooden Fence Advantages:

•Immediate privacy

•Lower maintenance

•Defined property boundary

•No watering or fertilizing required

•Predictable long-term costs

Best Choice: Ficus hedge for upscale properties, natural aesthetic preference, and where fence height restrictions are limiting.

Ficus Hedge vs. Other Privacy Trees

Ficus Hedge Advantages:

•Faster growth than most alternatives

•Denser foliage than many options

•Tolerates aggressive pruning

•Classic, formal appearance

•Proven track record in Southern California

Alternative Privacy Trees Advantages:

•Some options more drought-tolerant (California natives)

•Less aggressive root systems (podocarpus, bamboo)

•Some require less maintenance (Italian cypress)

•Fewer pest and disease issues (some alternatives)

Best Alternatives:

•Italian Cypress: Narrow, columnar, drought-tolerant, but slower-growing

•Podocarpus: Dense, slower-growing, less aggressive roots

•Bamboo: Very fast-growing, but can be invasive

•California natives: More sustainable, but generally slower and less dense

For detailed information about privacy tree options, see our privacy trees California guide.

Ficus Hedge Costs in California

Understanding costs helps you budget appropriately for your privacy hedge project.

Tree Costs

By Container Size (per tree, material only):

•5-gallon: $30-$60

•15-gallon: $75-$150

•24-inch box: $200-$400

•36-inch box: $500-$1,000

•48-inch box and larger: $1,000-$2,500+

Example: 40-Foot Hedge at 4-Foot Spacing

•Trees needed: 10

•15-gallon trees: $750-$1,500

•24-inch box trees: $2,000-$4,000

•36-inch box trees: $5,000-$10,000

Installation Costs

Professional Installation (per tree, labor only):

•Basic planting: $50-$100

•Planting with root barrier: $100-$200

•Planting with irrigation: $75-$150

Site Preparation:

•Soil amendment: $200-$800 (depends on linear footage and soil conditions)

•Root barrier installation: $500-$2,000 (depends on length and depth)

•Irrigation system: $800-$2,500 (depends on complexity and length)

Example: Complete 40-Foot Hedge Project

Budget Option (15-gallon trees, 4-foot spacing):

•Trees (10): $1,000

•Installation: $750

•Irrigation: $1,000

•Total: $2,750-$3,500

Standard Option (24-inch box, 4-foot spacing, root barrier):

•Trees (10): $3,000

•Installation with root barrier: $1,500

•Irrigation: $1,200

•Total: $5,700-$7,000

Premium Option (36-inch box, 3-foot spacing, complete system):

•Trees (13): $8,000

•Installation with root barrier: $2,500

•Irrigation: $1,500

•Soil preparation: $500

•Total: $12,500-$15,000

Ongoing Maintenance Costs

DIY Maintenance (annual):

•Fertilizer: $50-$150

•Pest/disease control: $100-$300

•Water (added cost): $200-$500

•Tools and supplies: $100-$200

•Total: $450-$1,150 per year

Professional Maintenance (annual):

•Monthly service (pruning, fertilizing, pest control): $100-$250 per month

•Total: $1,200-$3,000 per year

Call BuildCal at +1 (818) 303-1570 for a detailed, customized estimate for your ficus hedge project.

I Have a Small Yard… What Works for Me?

Great question! Even small yards can accommodate ficus hedges with smart planning.

We design compact, low-maintenance yards with easy pathways, drought-tolerant plants, and soft lighting that creates a calm, welcoming feel. You won't need to mow every week.

Small-Yard Ficus Hedge Strategies

Narrow Hedge Profile: Maintain hedge width at 2-3 feet through regular pruning, allowing ficus hedge in narrow side yards or small backyards.

Vertical Emphasis: Focus on height rather than width, creating privacy without consuming valuable yard space.

Corner Placement: Plant ficus hedges in corners or along one property line, leaving open space in center of yard.

Integration with Hardscaping: Combine ficus hedge with paver patios or hardscaping to create defined outdoor rooms.

Smaller Tree Spacing: Use 2-3 foot spacing with smaller container sizes to reduce initial cost while still achieving coverage.

For more small-space landscaping ideas, explore our front yard landscaping guide and backyard landscaping ideas.

Can You Help Me Choose Between Ficus and Other Privacy Plants?

Absolutely! Choosing the right privacy solution depends on your specific property, budget, timeline, and maintenance preferences.

We don't just plant trees. We design a space where you can sit with your family, drink coffee, and relax. Every project starts with a personal meeting—we listen to you, see your space, and understand how you want to live in it.

BuildCal's Privacy Screening Consultation Process

1. Site Visit: We visit your property to assess:

•Sun exposure and microclimate

•Soil conditions and drainage

•Space constraints

•Proximity to structures and utilities

•Existing landscaping

•Views to screen and preserve

2. Needs Assessment: We discuss:

•Privacy goals (what are you screening?)

•Timeline (how quickly do you need results?)

•Budget (what can you invest?)

•Maintenance tolerance (how much ongoing care?)

•Aesthetic preferences (formal vs. natural, evergreen vs. deciduous)

3. Recommendations: We provide:

•Plant species recommendations with pros/cons

•Spacing and quantity calculations

•Size recommendations based on timeline

•Cost estimates for different approaches

•Alternative solutions if ficus isn't ideal

4. Design Integration: We consider:

•How privacy screening integrates with overall landscape design

•Coordination with hardscaping elements

•Irrigation system requirements

•Outdoor lighting to enhance nighttime appearance

•Long-term maintenance plan

5. Installation and Support: We provide:

•Professional installation with proper techniques

•Root barrier installation if needed

•Irrigation system design and installation

•Initial care instructions

•Ongoing maintenance services if desired

What Makes BuildCal Different for Ficus Hedge Installation?

We've been designing outdoor spaces since 2010—over 14 years of hands-on work right here in Glendale, CA and surrounding neighborhoods. Our team includes designers and technicians certified by the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA).

What NO ONE ELSE in Glendale and Los Angeles Offers

Free, No-Pressure Personal Meeting: We visit your property, assess your space, discuss your privacy goals, and provide honest recommendations about whether ficus hedges are the best solution for your situation. We don't push products—we design solutions that work for you.

Custom Designs for Each Property: No cookie-cutter approaches. We design privacy solutions specifically for your property's size, sun exposure, soil conditions, and architectural style, ensuring the hedge complements your overall landscape.

Root Barrier Expertise: We've installed hundreds of ficus hedges with proper root barriers, protecting your hardscaping and structures while allowing trees to thrive. Many contractors skip this critical step.

Integrated Landscape Approach: We don't just plant trees in a row. BuildCal integrates your privacy hedge with hardscaping, irrigation systems, outdoor lighting, and complementary plantings for a cohesive, beautiful result.

California-Specific Expertise: We understand Southern California's climate, water restrictions, soil conditions, and common ficus problems. Our designs incorporate proper irrigation, disease-resistant practices, and maintenance plans suited to the region.

Documented Results: Every project we complete is documented with before-and-after photos. View our portfolio to see real ficus hedge installations and transformations.

Guarantee on All Work: Our installations are backed by workmanship guarantees. If trees fail due to improper installation, we replace them. We're invested in your long-term success.

Ongoing Maintenance Services: We don't just install and disappear. BuildCal offers comprehensive maintenance services including regular pruning, fertilization, pest management, and irrigation adjustments.

Real BuildCal Ficus Hedge Transformations

At BuildCal, we document every project with before-and-after photos. Here are two examples of ficus hedge installations we've completed.

Glendale Backyard Privacy Transformation

Challenge: Homeowners had zero privacy from neighboring two-story homes. Backyard felt like a fishbowl, preventing outdoor entertaining and relaxation.

Solution:

•Installed 14 Ficus nitida trees (24-inch box) at 3.5-foot spacing

•Created 50-foot privacy hedge along rear property line

•Installed root barrier to protect existing patio

•Designed and installed drip irrigation system

•Integrated with existing landscape design

•Added outdoor lighting to illuminate hedge at night

Results:

•Complete privacy achieved within 18 months

•Hedge maintained at 12-14 feet height through regular pruning

•No root damage to patio after 5+ years

•Homeowner quote: "BuildCal gave us our backyard back. We went from never using our yard to hosting dinner parties every month. The ficus hedge is beautiful, dense, and exactly what we needed. Their maintenance team keeps it looking perfect year-round."

Project Details:

•Timeline: 2 days installation, 18 months to full privacy

•Cost: $8,500 (trees, installation, root barrier, irrigation)

•Ongoing maintenance: $150/month professional service

Pasadena Side Yard Sound Barrier

Challenge: Side yard adjacent to busy street with constant traffic noise. Homeowners wanted sound reduction and visual screening without consuming entire narrow side yard.

Solution:

•Installed 8 Ficus nitida trees (36-inch box) at 4-foot spacing

•Created 32-foot hedge maintained at 16 feet height

•Kept hedge width at 3 feet through regular pruning

•Installed root barrier on both sides (protecting house foundation and driveway)

•Integrated with paver walkway on house side of hedge

Results:

•Significant noise reduction (estimated 30-40% based on homeowner perception)

•Complete visual screening from street

•Narrow hedge profile preserved usable side yard space

•Homeowner quote: "We can actually have conversations in our backyard now without shouting over traffic. The ficus hedge is tall enough to block the view of cars and reduce noise, but BuildCal kept it narrow so we still have a walkway. Perfect solution."

Project Details:

•Timeline: 1 day installation, immediate visual screening, 12 months to full density

•Cost: $12,000 (large trees, installation, double root barrier, irrigation, walkway coordination)

•Ongoing maintenance: DIY pruning 3 times per year

View more transformations in our portfolio.

Take the Next Step: Create Your Ficus Hedge Privacy Solution

A ficus hedge offers one of the fastest, most cost-effective privacy solutions available to Southern California homeowners. With proper planning, professional installation, and regular maintenance, your ficus hedge will provide decades of dense, evergreen screening.

At BuildCal, we've been designing outdoor spaces since 2010—over 14 years of hands-on work right here in Glendale, CA and surrounding neighborhoods including Pasadena, Los Angeles, Burbank, and La Cañada Flintridge. Our team includes designers and technicians certified by the American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA). We use trusted local materials and select plants that thrive in California's climate, ensuring your landscape lasts longer and needs less maintenance.

Ready to create your privacy hedge?

???? Call us today at +1 (818) 303-1570 for a free, no-pressure consultation

We'll visit your property, discuss your privacy goals and budget, assess site conditions, and create a custom plan that works for your lifestyle and California climate. We don't just plant trees—we design complete outdoor living spaces where you can truly relax and enjoy privacy.

Let's create your perfect privacy solution together.

About BuildCal Landscape

BuildCal Landscape is Glendale's premier landscaping, hardscaping, and outdoor living company, serving Pasadena, Los Angeles County, and surrounding areas since 2010. Our ASLA-certified designers specialize in creating beautiful, functional outdoor spaces that thrive in Southern California's Mediterranean climate. From landscape design to hardscaping, privacy screening, irrigation systems, outdoor lighting, and ongoing maintenance, we provide comprehensive outdoor solutions for residential and commercial properties.

Contact Information:

•Phone: +1 (818) 303-1570

•Website: https://buildcal.com

•Location: Serving Glendale, CA, Pasadena, Los Angeles, and surrounding areas

Certifications:

•American Society of Landscape Architects (ASLA) Certified Designers

•Licensed and Insured

•Over 14 years of experience in Southern California outdoor design