The Best Fencing Plants for Creating Beautiful Hedges in Kenya

Creating a secure and aesthetically pleasing fence is essential to homeownership in Kenya. While traditional fence options are still widely used, more people are turning to natural and modern fences made of live plants and shrubs.

Choosing the Right Fencing Plants

When selecting the best fencing plants for your hedges in Kenya, several factors should be considered:

• Climate Compatibility: Choose plants that are well-suited to the specific climate of your region. Consider factors such as temperature, rainfall, and soil conditions to ensure the plants can thrive in your area.

• Growth Rate: If you desire a quick-growing hedge, opt for plants that have a fast growth rate. However, keep in mind that faster-growing plants may require more maintenance and pruning.

• Maintenance Requirements: Consider the time and effort you are willing to invest in maintaining your hedge. Some plants may require regular pruning, watering, or fertilization, while others are relatively low-maintenance.

• Height and Density: Determine the desired height and density of your hedge. Some plants naturally grow taller and denser than others, providing better privacy and security.

• Pest and Disease Resistance: Choose plants that are resistant to common pests and diseases in your area. This will help ensure the longevity and health of your hedge.

• Landscaping: If you value natural beauty, choose evergreen and flowering plants. Ornamental species like rose flowers and hibiscus can be trimmed to create beautiful hedges. Consider adding a variegated plant like the duranta species to add color to your driveways.

• Cost: Look for hedge plants that are easy to establish and maintain. Consider your budget and choose plants that fit within it.

• Maturity: If privacy is your goal, select fast-growing plants that will quickly provide thick and tall hedges. Coniferous species like pine, cypress, Kei apple, and white bottlebrush are excellent choices.

• Mixed Hedges: To minimize the risk of losing your entire fence to diseases or pests, consider planting a mixed hedge with various plant types that can complement each other.

• Multipurpose Trees: Some hedge plants can serve multiple purposes. Consider planting legume trees like Calliandra, Leucaena, and Sesbania, which can be pruned for animal fodder. You can also plant fruit-bearing trees like guava and mulberry or vegetables like moringa for your own food. Climbing vines, such as passion fruits and cucurbits, can also be trained onto the fences to provide additional fruits and vegetables.

The Best Fencing Plants for Hedges in Kenya

Here’s a list of the best fencing plants you should consider:

• Bougainvillea

• Miniature bamboo

• Kei-Apple

• Cypress

• Duratha

• Lantana

• Tithonia

• Finger Euphorbia

• Acacia Species

Bougainvillea

Bougainvillea is one of the most popular live fence options in Kenya. This thorny shrub can grow up to 6 meters high, forming a dense and impenetrable barrier. Bougainvillea is drought-resistant and can thrive in different soil types. Its vibrant colors make it a beautiful addition to any home and require minimal maintenance.

Miniature Bamboo

While many people are familiar with using dry bamboo for fencing, green bamboo can also be used as a live fence option. However, it is crucial to choose a bamboo species that is non-invasive and grows in an orderly fashion. Some varieties of bamboo have a tendency to spread quickly, potentially causing conflicts with neighbors.

Kei-apple

The Kei apple is an excellent choice for live fences. It is native to Namibia and thrives in sandy soils, making it ideal for lowland, coastal, and saline areas. The drought-resistant plant has thorns, providing security and an effective barrier against animals.

Cypress

Cypress is a popular coniferous hedge plant that thrives in areas with high rainfall. It is known for its lush and fast-growing hedges, which require minimal maintenance once established. Cypress hedges provide excellent privacy due to their thick growth and soft foliage. They are also suitable for families with children and pets, as they have non-prickly greenery.

Duranta

Duranta is a versatile and fast-growing hedge plant commonly used for ornamental hedges. It belongs to the evergreen plant family and comes in various varieties, including ‘Golden Edge,’ ‘Sapphire Showers,’ and ‘Alba.’ Duranta hedges are easy to establish in well-drained, moist, fertile soils. They require frequent pruning and can have small thorns, making them suitable for security purposes.