When it comes to privacy, evergreen trees and shrubs are typically the best option.
Trees and shrubs that prefer full sun should be planted in an area that receives six or more hours of direct sunlight each day.
Plants that prefer partial sun or shade should be planted in an area that receives three to six hours of direct sunlight each day.
Trees and shrubs that prefer full shade should be planted in an area that receives less than three hours of direct sunlight each day.
The soil structure you have will also affect where you place newly planted trees, plant flowers or create a vegetable garden. If you have sandy soil, for example, you'll want to avoid planting in an area that is prone to flooding, has poor drainage or use a certain plant species. If you have clay soil or rocky soil, you'll want to make sure the location you choose has good drainage.
Type | Name |
|---|---|
Evergreens | Pine, spruce, cypress, cedar |
Deciduous trees | Oak, maple, elm, ash |
Fruit trees | Apple, pear, plum, cherry |
Flowering shrubs | Hydrangea, azalea, rhododendron, rose |
When it comes to privacy, evergreen trees and shrubs are typically the best options because they maintain their foliage all year round.
Pine trees are fast-growing and can reach heights of 10 to 30 metres, making them an ideal choice for privacy hedges or screens.
Spruce trees are slower-growing than pine trees, but can still reach heights of 10 to 30 metres. They have dense foliage that makes them excellent choices for privacy screens or hedges.
Cypress trees are evergreen conifers that can reach heights of 40 metres. They have dense, feathery foliage that provides excellent privacy.
Cedar trees are evergreen conifers that can reach heights of 40 to 50 metres. They have dense foliage that makes them excellent choices for privacy screens or hedges.
Some fast-growing varieties can reach their full height in just a few years, while others may take decades to reach their mature size. When choosing plants for your landscape, be sure to ask about the expected growth rate so you can plan accordingly. Planting a seed from a seed packet may take a while to show results, which is common sense, so it may be a good idea to plant a sapling if you are looking for quicker results.
The best time to replant a tree is in the early spring before new growth begins. Carefully dig up the tree, being careful not to damage the roots, and then transplant it to its new location. Be sure to choose a spot that has well-drained soil and plenty of room for the tree to grow. Once the tree is planted, water it deeply and keep the soil moist until it becomes established, which may take a few weeks. Most plants and new flowers like a particular soil surface so make sure your new plants are in good soil with the right compost and mulch.
Yes, you can replant a shrub. You will need to dig up the shrub and root ball to replant. To prune it, wait until the shrub has finished blooming and then cut back the stems by one-third.
Some popular choices include eucalyptus, acacia, banksia, grevillea, melaleuca and wattle. Speak to your local nursery or garden centre.
Fast-growing trees like eucalyptus can reach maturity in as little as 10 years, while slower-growing trees like acacia can take up to 20 years. Shrubs typically take longer to reach maturity than trees, with some taking up to 30 years. Newly planted flowers can take a few weeks to settle into your flower garden plot.
Most trees and shrubs need to be watered once a week. During periods of drought, you may need to water more frequently. When watering, make sure to soak the roots thoroughly and avoid getting the leaves wet, as this can promote fungal growth.
Yes, you can prune your trees and shrubs. The best time to prune is before the growing season begins. When pruning, make sure to remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. You can also trim back overgrown branches to promote new growth.
Pruning helps to keep trees and shrubs healthy and looking their best. It also helps to control the shape and size of the plant. Proper pruning can also help to increase air circulation and sunlight exposure, which can reduce the risk of fungal diseases. For more information on which trees to plant, the NSW Dept of Planning and Environment has a handy guide.