51+ Best Plants for Fence Lines That Will Instantly Transform Your Boring Fence

Hello, we’ve put together the best plants for fence lines for green thumbs and outdoor planters! 

Are you tired of staring at a dull and uninspiring fence every time you step into your yard?

We have the perfect solution for you: the best plants for fence lines! these green wonders bring life and beauty to your outdoor space and also turn that boring fence into a stunning botanical masterpiece.

Now, you might be wondering, “What exactly are the best plants for fence lines?” Yep, we will answer that. 

In this blog post, we cover everything on fence line plants, uncovering their superpowers, and revealing the top contenders that will bring a whole new level of excitement to your outdoor space.

These plants for fence lines mentioned here are also perfect for Australia, the United States, Canada and many other countries.

Disclaimer: No fences were harmed in the making of this blog post. However, they experience extreme happiness, increased attention, and a sudden urge to sprout leaves and dance to catchy tunes.

In this Article

• Best Evergreen Plants for Fence Lines
• best plants for fence lines in full sun
• Small plants for fence lines
• Shrubs to Grow Against a Fence
• Best Flowering Plants to Enliven the Border
• Best Fence Vines and Climbers for Vertical Appeal
• Low-Maintenance fence lines Plants for Busy Gardeners
• Trees to Create Natural Fence Lines
• Best Fence plants for privacy and Seclusion
• Plants for Fence Lines to Attract Birds
• Best Plants for fence lines to Attract Butterflies

Benefits of Planting Along the Fence Line

• Transforming your fence into a living backdrop
• Adding beauty and curb appeal to your property
• Creating a natural boundary and privacy screen
• Reducing noise pollution 
• acting as a windbreak
• Providing shade and cooling effects
• Increasing biodiversity and attracting wildlife
• Enhancing Outdoor Living Spaces By transforming your fence into a living backdrop for relaxing, entertaining, and dining.
• Boosting Property Value by significantly improving your curb’s appeal, making it more attractive to potential buyers and increasing its overall value.
• Creating a Microclimate: Plants along the fence line act as natural insulation, creating a microclimate within your yard. This microclimate can help regulate temperatures, making your outdoor space more comfortable during hot summers or cold winters.
• Absorbing Air Pollutants
• Erosion Control: If your yard is prone to erosion, planting along the fence line can help stabilize the soil.
• Plants along the fence line provide shelter, nesting sites, and food sources and contribute to the creation of microhabitats that attract birds, butterflies, and beneficial insects.
• Planting along the fence line presents an opportunity for gardening creativity and personal expression. You experiment with different plant combinations, textures, and colours, showcasing your unique style.

Before Planting: Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Plant for Your Fence Lines?

Before choosing the best plants for your fence lines, there are some important factors you should think of. We don’t want you to jump headfirst into planting only to find yourself in a botanical mix.

Your specific needs and goals

Picture yourself standing in your yard, gazing at that plain fence. What do you envision? A lush green paradise? A burst of colourful blooms? Or maybe a mix of both? 

Knowing what you need and the feel, and look you aim to show on your fence will help you in selecting the perfect plants to transform that fence into a captivating masterpiece.

Amount of sunlight, Soil type and drainage

Some plants thrive under the scorching sun, while others prefer a bit of shade. Take note of how much sunlight your fence line receives throughout the day. Additionally, observe the type of soil you have—whether it’s sandy, clayey, or something in between.

Oh, and don’t forget about drainage! Plants don’t like having wet feet, so make sure the soil drains well. Nobody wants to witness a plant paddling pool party!

Desired height and width of plants

Size does matter when it comes to plants along the fence line! Consider the desired height and width of the plants you want to grow. 

Do you crave tall, majestic sentinels that tower above your fence, or are you more inclined towards a lower, compact hedge? Keep these measurements in mind as you select the perfect green companions for your fence.

Local climate and hardiness zones

Mother Nature has her own rules, and plants need to play by them too! Take a peek at your local climate and hardiness zone. 

Some plants throw shade at frost, while others shrivel up under the scorching sun. By choosing plants that are well-suited to your climate and hardiness zone, you’re giving them the best chance to thrive and show off their leafy dance moves!

Maintenance requirements and your gardening skills

Let’s be real here, not all of us were born with a green thumb. If your gardening skills are a bit… shall we say, underdeveloped, not worry! There are plenty of low-maintenance plants that will forgive your occasional neglect and still put on a show. 

But if you’re up for the challenge and have the time and energy to spare, go ahead and choose those diva plants that require a little extra TLC. Just make sure you’re ready to embrace the role of a plant parent!

Local regulations and potential plant invasiveness

Now, let’s avoid any plant-related legal troubles, shall we? 

Before you start planting your selected plants for the fence lines, it’s always wise to research local regulations regarding fence line plants. 

Some areas have restrictions on certain species to prevent invasiveness or to protect native ecosystems. 

It’s better to be safe than sorry, and hey, we don’t want you ending up in a plant police chase!

How can I ensure my fence line plants survive harsh weather conditions?

Choose plants that are well-suited to your climate and can tolerate the specific weather conditions in your area. Consider factors such as frost, strong winds, and extreme temperatures when selecting plants. 

Providing adequate watering, mulching, and winter protection measures, such as wrapping or covering sensitive plants, can also help them withstand harsh weather.

Can I mix different types of plants along my fence line?

Absolutely! In fact, combining different types of plants can create a visually interesting and diverse fence line.

Consider combining evergreen plants with flowering varieties, or intermixing climbers with low-maintenance groundcover plants. Just ensure the plants have compatible growth requirements and won’t overcrowd or overshadow one another.

What are the Best Evergreen Plants for Fence Lines’ Year-Round Beauty?

1. Leyland Cypress

This elegant and statuesque evergreen is the Audrey Hepburn of fence line plants.

Leyland Cypress is Evergreen and has tall, slender silhouette perfect for fence lines adding a touch of sophistication to your outdoor space. Plus, its foliage comes in various shades of green, giving you options to match your style.

2. Juniper

Meet the James Bond of evergreen plants! Junipers are versatile, adaptable, and they always get the job done. With their needle-like foliage and unique blue-green hue, they bring a cool and refreshing vibe to your fence line. They’re the secret agents of beauty and durability.

3. Arborvitae

If you’re looking for a plant that’s a real team player, Arborvitae is your MVP. These evergreens are excellent for creating hedges or screens along the fence line.

With their dense foliage and conical shape, they form a sturdy wall of greenery that keeps your yard cosy and protected.

4. Boxwood

Ah, the little black dress of the plant world. Boxwood is a classic choice that never goes out of style. It’s like the versatile wardrobe staple that goes with everything.

If you want a formal look or a more casual vibe, boxwood effortlessly adapts to any garden style and fence line design.

5. Holly

It’s the jolly Holly! This evergreen is known for its festive red berries, which add a pop of colour to your fence line. Holly brings joy and cheer all year round, and it’s a favourite during the holiday season. Who needs mistletoe when you have Holly?

6. Euonymus

Euonymus is the chameleon of evergreens. 

With its stunning variegated foliage, it adds a playful and lively touch to your fence line. 

It’s like having a kaleidoscope of colours in your backyard! Whether you choose the golden, silver, or green variety, Euonymus is a showstopper. It’s the life of the garden party!

best plants for fence lines in full sun

1. Lavender

This plant is the ultimate sun lover and aromatic superstar. Lavender adores basking in the sun, and in return, it rewards you with its soothing fragrance and stunning purple blooms. It’s like having a mini spa retreat right next to your fence.

2. Rosemary

Say hello to the culinary queen of the fence line! Rosemary not only adds a touch of greenery but also brings delicious flavours to your cooking. It loves full sun and will happily provide you with its fragrant leaves year-round. Just brush against it, and your senses will be delighted.

3. Salvia

These vibrant beauties are like fireworks in your garden. Salvia varieties, such as ‘May Night’ or ‘Hot Lips,’ thrive in full sun and produce dazzling flower spikes in various colours, from blues and purples to reds and pinks. They’re the showstoppers that will make your fence line a standout.

4. Russian Sage

Prepare for a touch of elegance and whimsy with Russian Sage. With its feathery silver foliage and tall spikes of lavender-blue flowers, it adds a dreamy and ethereal atmosphere to your fence line. This sun-loving perennial is sure to make your garden feel like a fairytale.

5. Daylilies

These versatile and resilient plants are perfect for full sun fence lines. With their wide range of colours and patterns, they bring a burst of joy to your outdoor space.

Daylilies bloom profusely and are a low-maintenance option for adding a splash of colour to your fence line.

Best Appealing Small plants for fence lines

These plants understand the value of real estate. They know how to make the most of limited space along your fence line, offering a compact yet captivating display. If you have a small yard or just want to maximize every inch, these low-growing plants are the perfect solution.

1. Dwarf Barberry

This pint-sized version of the barberry shrub brings a burst of colour and texture to your fence line. With its compact form and vibrant foliage, it adds a touch of drama and intrigue. Plus, its thorns provide an added layer of protection, deterring unwanted visitors.

2. Spirea

Say hello to the little princess of the garden! Dwarf spirea varieties, such as ‘Goldflame’ or ‘Magic Carpet,’ are ideal for fence lines. 

They showcase beautiful foliage that changes colour throughout the seasons, from vibrant greens to fiery reds and oranges. These small wonders will make your fence line shine.

3. Coneflower

Who says flowers have to be towering giants? Dwarf coneflower varieties, like ‘PowWow’ or ‘Little Miss Sunshine,’ prove that good things come in small packages. These compact perennials bloom with vibrant and long-lasting flowers, attracting pollinators and adding a splash of colour to your fence line.

4. Ornamental Grasses

Get ready for a graceful dance of foliage along your fence line. 

Compact ornamental grasses, such as ‘Little Bluestem’ or ‘Fountain Grass,’ bring a touch of elegance and movement to your garden. Their feathery plumes and delicate textures create a captivating display, even in a limited space.

5. Creeping Phlox

This low-growing beauty is the perfect addition to your fence line. Creeping phlox spreads gently, forming a colourful carpet of flowers. With varieties available in shades of pink, purple, blue, and white, it’s like a living tapestry that adds a burst of colour and charm to your outdoor space.

Evergreen Shrubs to Grow Against a Fence

1. Privet

This classic choice is like a loyal friend you can always count on. Privet shrubs are known for their dense growth and ability to form a thick hedge along your fence line. 

With their glossy green leaves, they add a touch of elegance and a sense of enclosure to your outdoor space.

2. Boxwood

If you’re looking for a shrub that’s as versatile as it is beautiful, boxwood is the answer.

With its small and dense foliage, it creates a neat and tidy appearance along your fence line. Boxwood is like the perfect neighbour, always well-groomed and adding a touch of sophistication to your garden.

3. Dwarf Alberta Spruce

Dwarf Alberta spruce brings a unique pyramidal shape and vibrant green colour to your fence line. It’s like having a mini Christmas tree all year round, adding a playful and festive vibe to your outdoor space.

4. Escallonia

This evergreen shrub is a showstopper when it comes to fence lines. With its glossy foliage and clusters of vibrant flowers, it adds a burst of colour and attracts pollinators to your garden. Escallonia is like a party guest that brings energy, beauty, and a touch of excitement to your fence line.

5. Photinia

Prepare for a splash of drama and flair with this evergreen shrub. Photinia stands out with its striking red new growth, which gradually matures into glossy green leaves. It creates a captivating contrast and adds a sense of intrigue to your fence line. It’s like a natural work of art that demands attention.

Best Flowering Plants to Enliven the Border

1. Rose

Roses are the queens of the flower kingdom, and they make a grand entrance along your fence line. 

With their diverse colours, fragrances, and bloom shapes, roses offer endless options for adding elegance and romance. From classic hybrid teas to charming climbers, roses bring timeless beauty to your garden.

2. Lavender

Prepare for a fragrant and calming experience with lavender. These perennial plants not only add beautiful spikes of purple or blue flowers but also fill the air with their soothing scent.

Lavender is like a spa day for your senses, creating a peaceful and serene ambience along your fence line.

3. Coneflowers

These tough and vibrant perennials are a must-have for any border. With their daisy-like flowers and a range of colours, from pinks and purples to oranges and yellows, coneflowers attract pollinators and add a cheerful touch to your fence line. Coneflowers are like a party invitation for butterflies and bees.

4. Morning Glory

Wake up to a cascade of colour along your fence line with morning glories. These annual climbers produce stunning trumpet-shaped flowers in a variety of hues, from deep blues and purples to pinks and whites. Morning glories are like a burst of sunshine, greeting you with beauty every day.

5. Clematis

Get ready for a vertical masterpiece with clematis. These climbing vines showcase an array of large and colourful flowers, adding drama and elegance to your fence line. 

With their stunning blooms and vigorous growth, clematis is a showstopper that will make your garden the envy of the neighbourhood.

6. Sweet Pea

These delicate and fragrant flowers are the epitome of charm. Sweet peas bring a nostalgic touch to your fence line with their pastel-coloured blooms and intoxicating scent. They’re like little pockets of joy, reminding you of the simple pleasures of life.

Best Fence Vines and Climbers for Vertical Appeal

A. Ornamental climbers

1. Wisteria

Prepare for a breathtaking display of cascading blooms with wisteria. This ornamental climber produces long clusters of fragrant flowers in shades of purple, pink, or white. 

It creates a romantic and whimsical atmosphere, turning your fence into a magical curtain of colour and fragrance.

2. Honeysuckle

Get ready for a sweet treat for the eyes and nose with honeysuckle. This vine is known for its fragrant and trumpet-shaped flowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies. With its twining growth habit, honeysuckle adds a touch of wild beauty to your fence line.

3. Clematis

These stunning climbers are the stars of vertical gardens. Clematis varieties offer a wide range of flower colours, sizes, and forms, creating a captivating display along your fence. 

From delicate bell-shaped blooms to large and showy flowers, clematis brings elegance and charm to your outdoor space.

B. Fruit-bearing options

1. Grapevines

If you’re looking for a fruitful and decorative climber, grapevines are the perfect choice. They not only provide shade and privacy along your fence line but also reward you with delicious grapes. Imagine enjoying homegrown grapes straight from your backyard. It’s like having a vineyard at your fingertips!

2. Passionflower: 

This exotic and mesmerizing vine adds a tropical flair to your fence line. Passionflower features intricate and showy flowers with a unique structure. Beyond their beauty, passionflowers can also produce edible fruits known as passionfruit. It’s a delightful bonus to enjoy these delicious and unusual fruits.

Best Low-Maintenance fence lines Plants for Busy Gardeners

Drought-tolerant options

1. Succulents

These water-wise wonders are the perfect fit for busy gardeners. With their fleshy leaves and ability to store water, succulents thrive in dry conditions and require infrequent watering. From sedums to echeverias, they offer a variety of shapes, sizes, and colours, creating a unique and low-maintenance fence line.

2. Yucca

If you’re looking for a tough and striking plant, yucca is an excellent choice. With its sword-like leaves and architectural form, it adds a touch of drama to your fence line. Yuccas are incredibly resilient, drought-tolerant, and require minimal care. They are like desert warriors, standing tall and strong in any condition.

Hardy groundcovers

1. Ivy

This evergreen ground cover is a classic choice for low-maintenance fence lines. Once established, ivy requires minimal care and spreads quickly, covering the ground with lush foliage. It adds a touch of green and creates a seamless transition from the fence to the ground, offering a cohesive and low-maintenance look.

2. Pachysandra

If you’re seeking a dense and shade-tolerant ground cover, pachysandra is the answer. This evergreen plant forms a carpet of glossy leaves, adding texture and vibrant green colour to your fence line.

Pachysandra is known for its resilience and ability to thrive in various conditions with minimal maintenance.

3. Vinca minor 

This charming and low-growing plant is perfect for creating a carpet of flowers along your fence line.

Vinca minor, also known as periwinkle or creeping myrtle, produces delicate blue or white flowers that add a pop of colour. It’s a hardy ground cover that requires little care and rewards you with its beauty.

Trees to Create Natural Fence

1. Leyland Cypress

 This fast-growing evergreen tree is a popular choice for creating a natural fence. With its dense foliage and tall height, the Leyland cypress provides excellent privacy and acts as a living barrier. It forms a thick wall of greenery, creating a beautiful and effective natural fence.

2. Eastern Redcedar

This native tree is known for its durability and adaptability. Eastern redcedar features dense foliage and a conical shape, making it an ideal choice for a natural fence.

Its foliage provides year-round coverage, and its berries attract birds, adding wildlife value to your fence line.

3. Bamboo

Although technically not a tree, bamboo is a remarkable option for creating a natural fence due to its rapid growth and dense clustering. 

It forms a tall and sturdy barrier that offers privacy and a touch of exotic beauty. Bamboo comes in various species, such as clumping and running, allowing you to choose the type that suits your needs.

4. Arborvitae

This evergreen tree is a versatile choice for a natural fence. With its dense foliage and compact growth, arborvitae creates a thick and lush wall of green. It adds a touch of elegance and beauty to your landscape while providing privacy and acting as a sound barrier.

5. European Beech

If you’re looking for a tree that combines beauty with functionality, the European beech is a fantastic option. With its smooth grey bark, lush foliage, and stunning copper-coloured leaves in the fall, it creates an eye-catching natural fence. 

While it may take some time to reach its full height, the European beech is well worth the wait for its aesthetic appeal.

Best Fence plants for privacy and Seclusion (Dense and tall plants for fence lines)

1. Bamboo

 Bamboo is a remarkable plant for creating privacy along your fence line. With its rapid growth and dense clustering, it forms a tall and sturdy barrier that effectively blocks views and provides privacy. Choose the appropriate species of bamboo that suits your climate and desired height.

2. Leyland Cypress

Leyland cypress is a popular choice for its dense foliage and rapid growth. It forms a thick wall of greenery that acts as a living barrier, offering privacy and seclusion. With its tall height and year-round coverage, Leyland cypress is a go-to option for creating a private outdoor space.

3. Arborvitae

Arborvitae is a versatile plant known for its dense foliage and compact growth. It creates a lush and green wall that provides privacy along your fence line. With its elegant appearance and ability to withstand various climates, arborvitae is an excellent choice for creating a private and serene outdoor space.

4. Red Cedar

Eastern red cedar is a durable and adaptable tree that offers both privacy and beauty. With its dense foliage and conical shape, it creates a natural fence that provides seclusion. The aromatic wood of red cedar also acts as a natural repellent for insects, adding an additional benefit to your private outdoor space.

Which Plants Will Attract Butterflies to My Fence Lines?

1. Butterfly Bush

As the name suggests, this plant is a magnet for butterflies. Its fragrant and nectar-rich flowers attract a wide variety of butterfly species, adding a fluttering display of beauty to your fence line.

Butterfly bush comes in various colours creating a vibrant and welcoming habitat for these graceful creatures.

2. Milkweed

Milkweed is not only a favourite of butterflies but also an essential plant for supporting the lifecycle of monarch butterflies. It serves as a host plant for their caterpillars and provides a source of nectar for adult butterflies.

3. Lantana

Lantana is a colourful and hardy plant that not only attracts butterflies but also other pollinators like bees and hummingbirds.

Its vibrant clusters of flowers provide abundant nectar, creating a buzzing and vibrant ecosystem along your fence line. Lantana comes in various colours and is known for its long-lasting blooms.

Best Plants for Fence Lines to Attract Birds

1. Elderberry

Elderberry is a fantastic choice for attracting birds to your fence line. Its clusters of small, dark berries serve as a valuable food source for a variety of bird species. Elderberry also provides nesting sites and shelter, making it a bird-friendly plant that adds both beauty and functionality to your wildlife haven.

2. Serviceberry

Serviceberry, also known as Juneberry, offers a feast for both birds and humans. Its berries are highly attractive to birds, while its delicate white flowers in spring provide nectar for pollinators.

Serviceberry trees or shrubs bring seasonal interest with their changing foliage colours and create a welcoming habitat for birds.

3. Dogwood

Dogwood trees are not only admired for their stunning flowers but also loved by birds. Their small, berry-like fruits are a favourite food source for many bird species.

With their elegant branches and vibrant fall foliage, dogwoods add beauty and provide food for feathered friends, making them a wonderful addition to your fence line.

Tips for Planting and Maintenance Fence Plants

Proper Preparation of the Soil and Site

• Before planting, assess the soil conditions and ensure it is well-draining. Amend the soil if necessary by adding organic matter like compost.
• Consider the sunlight requirements of the plants and choose a site that provides the appropriate amount of light for optimal growth.
• Clear the area of weeds, rocks, and debris to give the plants a clean and healthy start.

Planting Techniques and Spacing Considerations

• Dig a hole that is slightly wider and deeper than the plant’s root ball. Place the plant in the hole and backfill it with soil, firming it gently around the roots.
• Follow the recommended spacing guidelines provided for each plant species to allow proper air circulation and prevent overcrowding as the plants mature.

Pruning, Shaping, Training, and Managing Growth for a Neat Appearance

• Regular pruning helps maintain the shape, size, and overall appearance of the fence plants. Prune selectively to remove dead or diseased branches, promote new growth, and maintain a neat and tidy appearance.
• Train certain plants, like climbers and vines, to grow along the fence using supports or trellises. This helps create a uniform and visually appealing look.

Watering, Mulching, and Fertilization Guidelines

• Water the plants deeply and regularly, especially during their establishment period. Monitor the soil moisture and adjust watering frequency based on the plant’s needs.
• Apply a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plants to help retain soil moisture, suppress weed growth, and provide insulation for the roots.
• Follow the fertilization recommendations specific to each plant species. Apply fertilizers sparingly and at the appropriate times to avoid overfeeding or causing nutrient imbalances.

Dealing with Pests, Diseases, and Common Plant Issues

• Monitor the plants regularly for signs of pests or diseases. Identify any issues early on and take appropriate measures, such as using organic pest control methods or consulting a professional if needed.
• Provide adequate airflow and spacing between plants to minimize the risk of fungal diseases.
• Proper plant selection and care, including maintaining overall plant health, can help prevent common issues and promote resilience against pests and diseases.

Handling Common Fence Line Plant Issues

Dealing with Invasive Plant Species

• Invasive plants can quickly take over and negatively impact the surrounding ecosystem. Identify any invasive species in your fence line and take immediate action to remove or manage them.
• Research local regulations and guidelines for handling invasive plants in your area. Follow recommended methods for eradication or containment, such as physical removal, herbicides, or contacting local authorities for assistance.

Dealing with Inadequate Growth or Poor Health

• If your fence line plants are not growing properly or showing signs of poor health, assess their growing conditions. Check for issues like insufficient sunlight, improper watering, compacted soil, or nutrient deficiencies.
• Adjust the growing conditions as needed. Provide appropriate levels of sunlight, ensure proper watering practices, improve soil drainage, and address any nutrient deficiencies by applying the necessary fertilizers or amendments.

Addressing Nutrient Deficiencies

• Nutrient deficiencies can manifest as yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or poor flowering. Conduct a soil test to determine the specific nutrient deficiencies and adjust your fertilization practices accordingly.
• Choose fertilizers that are specifically formulated for the needs of your plants and apply them at the recommended rates and times. Follow the instructions on the fertilizer package to avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to further problems.

Ensuring Compatibility with Neighboring Properties and Structures

• Consider the potential impact of your fence line plants on neighbouring properties and structures, such as overhanging branches, invasive roots, or shading.
• Trim back any branches or growth that encroach on neighbouring properties to maintain good relations with your neighbours. Use proper pruning techniques to promote healthy growth and prevent damage to nearby structures.

Managing Potential Damage to the Fence

• As your plants grow, ensure they do not cause damage to the fence structure. Regularly inspect for any branches or growth that may push against or damage the fence.
• Prune back branches that come into contact with the fence to prevent potential damage. Use proper supports or trellises for climbers or vines to guide their growth away from the fence and prevent entanglement.

FAQs On Plants for Fence Lines

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