Fences and retaining walls are often necessary in a garden, but they can look harsh or dominate the space if left unplanted. The right plants can soften these hard surfaces, add greenery and create a more inviting, established feel.
Whether you’re working with a timber fence, Colorbond boundary or concrete retaining wall, choosing suitable plants will transform these areas into a feature rather than an eyesore.
Why plant along fences and walls?
Planting along boundaries helps to:
- Soften hard lines
- Add privacy
- Reduce heat reflection
- Improve street appeal
- Create a layered garden look
- Make small spaces feel greener
Even narrow garden beds can become lush and attractive with the right plant selection.
What to consider before planting
Bed width
Narrow beds require upright plants that won’t grow too wide.
Sun exposure
Fences often create shade on one side and heat on the other.
Height needed
Decide whether you want full screening or just soft greenery.
Maintenance level
Choose plants that suit how much pruning and care you want to do.
Root systems
Avoid large invasive roots near retaining walls or structures.
Best plants for softening fences
Lilly Pilly
A popular choice for hedging and screening. Provides dense foliage and can be shaped to suit the space.
Best for: Privacy and evergreen coverage
Viburnum
Fast-growing and lush, viburnum quickly fills out along fences and creates a green backdrop.
Best for: Quick screening and height
Murraya (Mock Orange)
A classic hedge plant with glossy foliage and fragrant flowers. Works well in narrow beds.
Best for: Medium-height hedges
Pittosporum
Reliable and hardy, pittosporum varieties work well for both formal and informal screening.
Best for: Structured planting along boundaries
Plants for retaining walls
Retaining walls often need plants that cascade or soften edges.
Lomandra
Hardy and low maintenance. Ideal for planting along the base of walls or in narrow strips.
Liriope
Great for softening the base of walls and adding texture.
Westringia
A tough native shrub that handles sun and wind. Good for both walls and fences.
Gardenia
Adds lush foliage and fragrance in sheltered areas.
Climbing and vertical plants
Climbers can soften tall fences or bare walls quickly.
Star Jasmine
Evergreen and fragrant. Great for covering fences or trellises.
Hardenbergia
A native climber with purple flowers. Works well in sunny areas.
Bougainvillea
Perfect for warm climates and sunny walls. Adds strong colour.
Pandorea
A fast-growing climber suitable for covering fences and structures.
Plants for narrow spaces
If the garden bed is tight, choose upright varieties:
- Pencil Pines
- Slim Lilly Pilly varieties
- Bamboo (clumping)
- Cordyline
- Magnolia (compact forms)
These provide height without taking up too much width.
Layering for a softer look
For the best results, combine:
- Taller screening plants
- Mid-height shrubs
- Groundcovers
Layering creates depth and prevents the area from looking flat.
Tips for planting success
Prepare soil well
Improve soil before planting, especially near new retaining walls.
Use mulch
Mulch helps retain moisture and improve soil health.
Install irrigation if possible
Boundary areas can dry out quickly.
Plant at correct spacing
Avoid overcrowding while ensuring plants fill out over time.
Use advanced plants for faster impact
Larger plants provide quicker results and instant softening.
Designing around fences and walls
To make boundary planting look intentional:
- Keep plant selection consistent
- Repeat the same varieties
- Use clean lines
- Maintain even spacing
- Prune regularly
This creates a neat, cohesive look.
Common Mistakes When Softening Fences
Planting too close to the fence
This restricts airflow and can cause mildew or pest issues.
Choosing fast-growing invasive roots
Some species may damage retaining structures over time.
Using too many plant varieties
Excess diversity creates visual clutter.
Neglecting mature height
Overgrown plants can overwhelm small spaces.
Frequently Asked Questions
How close should I plant shrubs to a fence?
Generally 50–100cm away, depending on mature width. This allows airflow and access for maintenance.
Can I plant directly against a retaining wall?
It is better to plant slightly forward unless the wall has proper drainage and soil depth behind it.
What is the fastest way to hide a fence?
Advanced-grown screening shrubs provide the quickest coverage. However, correct spacing and soil preparation are essential for long-term success.
Are climbers better than shrubs?
It depends on space. Climbers work well in narrow areas, while shrubs provide fuller coverage and density.
Do I need irrigation along fences?
In many Australian climates, drip irrigation ensures consistent deep watering and reduces stress during hot periods.
Final thoughts
Fences and retaining walls don’t have to dominate a garden. With the right plant selection, they can become a green backdrop that enhances the entire space.
By choosing suitable screening plants, climbers and border plants, you can soften hard surfaces and create a more inviting garden that feels lush and established. Even the narrowest planting strip can make a big difference when planted thoughtfully.