Security planting is not all about perimeter barbed wire, electric fencing and bars. Nature provides a host of natural fences that make a better deterrent than most manmade fences.

Picture a climbing rose or a brightly coloured bougainvillea cascading over a wall, a beautiful sight but not much fun to climb over!

If a thorny climber is not suitable then consider hedging with the indigenous Kei Apple (Doyvalis) or Carrissa macrocarpa (Amatungulu). Both shrubs have very large thrones so extreme care needs to be taken when cutting these shrubs.

Other planting options include:

  • Pyracantha. Not known as the firethorn for nothing, one scratch from this and you will know all about it.

  • Hawthorns. Will provide an impenetrable barrier.

  • Berberis. Little thorns with attractive foliage.

  • Christ Thorn

  • Acacia

  • Roses

    • Very often these thorny plants would make the life of would be intruders very difficult but are a haven for birds and other wildlife that use the natural fortification to their benefit.

    Another practical and easy way to deter burglars is to incorporate crushed gravel into your pathways around the house as walking on it can be heard quite clearly from inside.

    Good security lighting

    There is no doubt that security lighting can deter burglars. It also reduces the fear of crime: a simple plug in timer could be enough to put off an opportunist criminal from burgling your home.

    The burglar often makes up his mind to target a property from across the road; if your property is lit then he will generally look for a softer option.