jixxxer , i have had the same problem , the fastest growing plant for privacy and be able to fully control is the privot hedge. in about 3 years you get some privacy (6-7 ft ) buying 2 to 3 foot plants.arborvitae's grow bout ft. a year under good condition's , trenchy arborvitae is alot wider bush , planting 6 ft apart, if you want to wait that long. after 2 kid's trashed my pond ,visiting my new neighbor, i put up a 7 ft board on board fench 300 ft, electric top and bottom, electric fence the rest. i'll plant rose of sharon every other section in the spring. instant privacy though LOL good luck
