Long before the popularity of electronic security systems, homeowners used defensive plants to protect their homes. You can strategically place dense, thorny, and spiky bushes together to create a barrier that keeps intruders away. One of the best things about defensive plants is that they can be part of your landscape. Here are a few practical yet attractive defensive plants to consider adding to your home.
1. Barrel Cactus
Barrel cacti are stunning! They can be a fun addition to existing defensive plantings. As the name implies, these cacti grow in a lovely rounded shape. They have spikes growing from the ribs and radiating from the top downwards. Barrel cacti are both decorative and functional as deterrents.
The cactus grows best in dry conditions. It needs lots of sunshine and little water. However, it can tolerate frost for an impressive period. You can plant a few at the bottom of your fence lines or in a rockery under your windows.
When dealing with this plant, be careful with placement. You don’t need to have it too close to your home that it obscures possible escape routes or areas that need maintenance. It shouldn’t be close to areas where kids and pets frequent.
2. Agave
This slow-growing succulent can be great for your home security. When established, it takes up lots of space, creating a barrier that is almost impossible to get through.
The best way to use Agave is under windows or along your fence lines. Its serrated or spiny leaves form sharp points that can pierce your flesh if touched. The damage is a lot worse if the leaves pierce your eyes. While it is excellent for protection, you must be careful when maintaining your Agave.
The plant thrives in full sun and free-draining soil. Although it is drought-tolerant, a consistent water supply promotes growth.
3. Californian Fuchsia (Fuchsia Flowering Gooseberry)
This plant is gorgeous. It is a shrub that produces bright red, low-hanging flowers in spring. It can grow up to nine feet tall with stems covered in spines.
It does well in the shade and loses its leaves in drought conditions. The Californian fuchsia can thrive in almost all soils when it is established. At maturity, it can grow six to eight feet tall. Pruning is necessary to maintain visibility. Be careful with the large thorns, as they can easily tear through light gloves or clothing.
4. Bougainvillea
This is one of the loveliest, most popular defensive plants. It is a shrub that blooms with vibrant bracts almost all year round. It does best in tropical climates.
The glorious shrub comes in shades of red, orange, pink, yellow, and white. Few defensive plants can compete with the beauty of bougainvillea. In addition, it is low-maintenance and can look great in most parts of your home.
Updating the Gate System to Protect a Private Driveway
Consider updating your gate system to protect the driveway. This is one of the first areas of defense for your property. Does your driveway have enough privacy? Can people see in from the outside and potentially access your possessions?
Upgrade your gate system with LiftMaster for peace of mind and to make your space more private. Consider options that come with all you need to allow wireless entry. Battery backup comes in handy in the event of power failure. Consider getting professional advice when in doubt of the best system for your property.
In conclusion, your property’s plants can be functional and decorative. Attractive and defensive plants include bougainvillea, barrel cactus, and Agave. They can create a barrier to keep intruders away while adding to the aesthetic appeal of your property.
