Leslie Massey
Hedges are an essential part of Aussie backyards, providing privacy and a beautiful architectural feature. There are several fast-growing hedges in Australia, including the Japanese hedge (approx. 75cm/year), Photinia (approx. 60-120cm/year), Murraya paniculata, and bamboo. Climbers are also a speedy solution, but they require more maintenance and are less dense. When choosing a fast-growing hedge, it's important to consider the desired height, density, and maintenance requirements. Additionally, factors such as soil type, sunlight, climate, and other conditions can impact the growth rate.
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What You'll Learn
Climbers and screening plants
Murraya Paniculata
Also known as "Lilly Pilly", this popular screening plant features lush foliage and a delightful citrusy scent. It is ideal for pruning into a dense hedge and can reach a height of up to 4 metres. Murraya is straightforward to grow and care for, especially in warmer climates, and it is drought-tolerant. However, it is considered invasive in some areas of NSW and Queensland, so a hybrid variety may be a better choice.
Photinia
Photinia is a hardy shrub that can reach a height of up to 6 metres. It is drought and frost-tolerant and resistant to most pests and diseases, making it a popular choice for Australian gardeners. Photinia is known for its new growth in shades of red, and it produces small white flowers and fruits that attract birds.
Callistemon
Commonly known as the "red-flowering bottlebrush", Callistemon is a low-maintenance plant that is perfect for informal hedges. It can reach a maximum height of 6 metres, but regular pruning can control its growth. Callistemon is drought-tolerant and produces striking red flowers and deep green foliage, making it a popular choice for Australian gardens.
Bamboo
Although not traditionally considered a hedge plant, bamboo makes an excellent screen when planted close together. Choose a clumping, non-invasive variety such as Japanese hedge bamboo or ornamental gold bamboo, which can reach a height of around 4 metres in under 2 years.
Grevillea
Grevillea is a hardy and excellent hedging plant that can offer privacy and noise pollution control. It grows very fast and requires pruning to maintain its shape. Grevillea is a great choice for gardeners in temperate, coastal, and subtropical climates.
When choosing any of these plants, it is important to consider your soil type, climate, and light levels to ensure the best growth conditions. Regular care, such as watering, feeding, and protection from pests and cold snaps, will also help encourage healthy growth for your screening plants.
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The importance of soil type, climate, and light levels
When choosing a hedge for your Australian garden, it's important to consider the soil type, climate, and light levels. These factors can significantly impact the growth rate and overall health of your hedge.
Soil type is crucial as certain hedge plants are more particular about the type of soil they grow in. For example, Camelias prefer soil that is slightly acidic and not clay-based. On the other hand, some plants like the Starry Night are more adaptable and can tolerate most soil types, favouring well-drained humus. If you have clay-heavy soil, you can always add a layer of new soil on top and plant your hedges in that layer.
Climate is another important consideration. Some hedges, like the Murraya paniculata, thrive in warmer climates and full sun to part shade. Others, like the Japanese hedge, are more adaptable and can tolerate moderate cold, making them suitable for cooler climates. If you live in an area with frost, it's important to consider plants that are frost-tolerant or plant during the months leading up to spring to avoid frost damage.
Light levels also play a role in the growth of your hedge. Some plants, like the Murraya paniculata, prefer full sun to part shade, while others, like the Japanese hedge, can tolerate a range of light conditions. If you're planting in an area that receives full sun, be sure to water your plants regularly to prevent them from drying out.
It's worth noting that while some hedges are faster-growing, they may require more maintenance and frequent trimming to keep them neat and tidy. Slower-growing hedges may be more suitable if you have a busy schedule and less time for hedge maintenance.
By taking into account the soil type, climate, and light levels in your garden, you can choose a hedge that will thrive and provide privacy, shade, and a visual barrier for your Australian home.
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Privacy and aesthetics
When it comes to privacy and aesthetics in the context of fast-growing hedges in Australia, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, it's important to strike a balance between achieving privacy quickly and choosing a hedge that will look its best in the long term. While some hedges may grow faster initially, slower-growing hedges can often be more aesthetically pleasing and require less maintenance in the long run.
One option to consider is planting a fast-growing hedge that provides immediate privacy, such as bamboo or a fence topper lattice. Bamboo forms compact and dense growth, making it ideal for privacy screens. However, it's important to select clumping bamboo instead of running bamboo to prevent it from becoming invasive. Alternatively, you can supplement a slower-growing hedge with a temporary screen, such as a fence topper lattice, until the hedge reaches its desired height.
Another factor to consider is the height and density of the hedge. To achieve privacy, you may need a tall and dense hedge, especially if you're blocking out neighbours in a small yard. Lilly pilly, Photinia 'Red Robin', and Murraya paniculata are popular choices for fast-growing hedges that can provide privacy. Lilly pilly, a native Australian plant, grows well in both sun and part shade and produces colourful new growth. Photinia 'Red Robin' is known for its bright red new growth and easy maintenance, while Murraya paniculata has fragrant blossoms and glossy green leaves.
However, it's important to note that while hedges can provide visual privacy, they are not effective at reducing noise pollution. If noise is a concern, consider plants like Grevillea, which can offer privacy and help control noise pollution. Additionally, ensure that the hedge you choose is suitable for your soil type, climate, and light levels. Proper preparation of the soil and regular watering are crucial for the healthy growth of your hedge.
Lastly, consider the aesthetic appeal of the hedge and how it complements your house and garden. Choose a variety that suits your preferences and the overall design of your outdoor space. Whether you prefer a natural shape or a more formal, trimmed look, there are various fast-growing hedge options available to enhance your privacy and the beauty of your garden.
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Maintenance and trimming
When it comes to maintenance and trimming of fast-growing hedges in Australia, there are several key considerations. Firstly, it is important to recognise that fast-growing hedges typically require more frequent and regular trimming than their slower-growing counterparts. While slower-growing hedges may only need a once-a-season trim, fast-growing varieties may demand monthly or even more frequent attention to maintain their shape and size. This is an important consideration for those with busy schedules or limited time for garden maintenance.
The choice between a fast-growing and a slow-growing hedge should be an informed one. Fast-growing hedges can quickly become a nuisance if not properly maintained, blocking light and potentially leading to disputes with neighbours. On the other hand, slow-growing hedges may take longer to establish and provide the desired level of privacy. Additionally, it is worth noting that some hedges, such as the Japanese hedge bamboo, are naturally fast-growing but also low-maintenance, offering a good balance between growth and upkeep.
To ensure the healthy growth of your hedge, regular feeding is recommended, especially for hedging plants in their early stages. This can be in the form of organic compost for non-native plants or fertilisers designed to encourage new growth. Proper protection from pests, cold weather, and leaf burn is also crucial to support the growth of your hedge.
Annual hard pruning is an effective way to encourage dense growth and maintain the desired shape of your hedge. This technique is particularly useful for shrubby flowering perennial plants. Additionally, light clipping throughout the seasons can enhance the bushiness of the plants. For hedges that are intended for privacy, regular trimming is essential to maintain their thickness and height.
Lastly, it is worth considering the practical aspects of hedge maintenance. Factors such as access for trimming, the presence of children or pets, and the type of soil can influence the ease of maintenance. By thoughtfully addressing these considerations, you can create a thriving and well-maintained hedge that enhances the beauty and privacy of your Australian garden.
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Drought tolerance and frost tolerance
When selecting a hedge for your Australian garden, it is important to consider the plant's tolerance to drought and frost, especially given the country's variable and often extreme climate.
Drought tolerance refers to a plant's ability to withstand extended periods of water scarcity and still survive. This is a crucial consideration in Australia, which experiences frequent droughts and has a generally dry climate. Plants that are drought-tolerant can maintain their structure and
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Frequently asked questions
There is no one answer to this question. The growth rate depends on a lot of factors, including soil types, sunlight, climate, and other conditions. Some fast-growing hedges include the Japanese hedge, Photinia, Murraya, and Lilly Pilly.
Some other options for fast-growing hedges include bamboo, Camellia sasanqua 'Hiryu', Grevillea, and Pittosporum 'Silver Sheen'.
To make your hedge grow faster, ensure that it has the right conditions, including the right soil type, climate, and light levels. Water your plants regularly and protect them from pests and cold snaps.
Fast-growing hedges can provide privacy and act as a screen or barrier. They can also add value to your home and provide habitat for birds, insects, and other wildlife.
