Plant Care Tips
The Best Trees for Privacy: Our Top 5 Hedging Picks
Are your neighbours watching you? Privacy is one of the most common reasons our customers plant advanced trees. Whether you're lining a fence, creating a windbreak, or softening the boundary between your home and the world beyond it, these are our most recommended screening trees. Each offers something slightly different—formality, softness, scale, or speed—so it’s about finding the one that suits your space and style. 1. Ficus Hillii Flash Lush, upright, and incredibly effective for privacy, Ficus Flash is a standout performer. With dense lime-green foliage and fast, even growth, it provides immediate structure and screening in gardens of all sizes. Mature Height: 3–6m (depending on size purchased)Mature Width: 2–3mGrowth Rate: FastBest For: Driveways, fencelines, pleaching (bare trunks), formal gardens Consider This If:You want a clean, structured look and fast results. Ficus Flash is excellent if you want uniformity, minimal maintenance, and the ability to shape or pleach for a refined finish. Might Not Be Ideal If:Your area is prone to heavy frost. Ficus is not frost-tolerant and thrives best in warmer, temperate climates. 2. Waterhousia floribunda (Weeping Lilly Pilly) A fast-growing Australian native with soft, weeping foliage and a more relaxed, informal feel. Waterhousia floribunda is ideal if you're after a natural look—offering height, softness, and a sense of movement. It’s one of the tallest options available, maturing up to 10m, and works beautifully for acreage, longer boundary lines or large garden spaces. Low-maintenance, lush, and easy to shape if needed. Mature Height: Up to 10mMature Width: 4–6mGrowth Rate: FastBest For: Larger urban homes, Acreage, long fencelines, natural screens, attracts birds and bees. Consider This If:You want something tall and soft that doesn’t feel too formal. It’s great if you prefer a native look or need to cover a large space quickly. Might Not Be Ideal If:You’re in a region with extreme frost or inconsistent water. It prefers consistent watering and a temperate climate. Root System:Moderately deep and non-invasive. Suitable near fences with standard planting distances. 3. Backyard Bliss Lilly Pilly A top choice for suburban gardens, Backyard Bliss offers dense coverage in a compact form. Its slim profile and bright lime green foliage make it ideal for tight spaces where privacy is key. This psyllid-resistant variety is exceptionally low maintenance and remains lush year-round — one of our consistent best sellers at Evergreen Trees Direct. Mature Height: 3–4mMature Width: 1.5–2mGrowth Rate: Moderate to FastBest For: Suburban hedging & privacy, tight spaces, low-maintenance gardens Consider This If:You need a neat screen in a smaller garden. Backyard Bliss is a no-fuss option that delivers full coverage without taking over. Might Not Be Ideal If:You’re looking for a more natural, informal shape or something taller for acreage-scale screening. 4. Laurus nobilis ‘Miles Choice’ Timeless and versatile, this Bay Tree cultivar offers rich green foliage and exceptional hardiness. Whether clipped into a tight hedge or left to grow naturally, it holds shape beautifully and suits both classic and contemporary landscapes. Mature Height: 4–6mMature Width: 2–3mGrowth Rate: ModerateBest For: Formal gardens, clipped hedges, pleaching, drought-prone areas Consider This If:You want a classic look with minimal upkeep. It’s especially good if you like symmetry, structure, and deep green colour. Might Not Be Ideal If:You need very fast growth or softness in your planting style. This tree is more about elegance than informality. 5. Cupressus Leighton Green If you need height, scale, and fast coverage, Leighton Green is hard to beat. This tall, upright conifer is perfect for rural sites, driveways, or exposed areas where wind protection is just as important as privacy. Mature Height: 8–15mMature Width: 3–4mGrowth Rate: Very Fast (up to 1m/year)Best For: Windbreaks, rural boundaries, large-scale screening Consider This If:You want something tall, dense, and fast. Ideal for paddocks, large blocks, and perimeter screening where presence and protection are key. Might Not Be Ideal If:You’re in a small urban space or want something more ornamental or compact. Final Thought The right privacy tree depends on your space, climate, and the type of look you’re going for—structured and formal, soft and natural, compact or grand. If you’re still unsure which to choose, our team can help guide you based on your location and planting goals.
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The Top 10 Hedging Trees for a Dense Hedge
Looking to create a dense, low-maintenance hedge? This expert guide covers the top 10 hedging trees for privacy, noise reduction, and year-round structure. Featuring Ficus Hillii, Lilly Pillys, Laurel, and more, each variety is selected for its dense foliage, growth rate, and adaptability to various climates. Whether you're after a formal border or a fast-growing screen, find the perfect hedging solution for your garden.
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Creating a Mediterranean Garden: Bring the Essence of Mediterranean to Your Backyard
Discover the beauty and charm of a Mediterranean garden with our expert plant recommendations and design tips. Create your own oasis inspired by the timeless landscapes of the Mediterranean region. From elegant Bay Trees to iconic Olive Trees, we'll guide you through the key plants and design elements that capture the essence of the Mediterranean. Whether you have a small suburban space or a sprawling garden, our blog post will help you bring the Mediterranean ambiance to your outdoor paradise.
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The Best Trees for Attracting Bees and Butterflies
Transform your garden into a thriving ecosystem with five pollinator-friendly trees that combine beauty and function. From the year-round blooms of Grevillea ‘Moonlight’ to the fragrant elegance of Lemon Myrtle, these trees attract bees, butterflies, and birds while enhancing your outdoor space. Discover low-maintenance, high-impact options perfect for any landscape.
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How to Choose the Right Trees for a Formal Garden Design
Transform your garden into a polished, sophisticated retreat with four exceptional trees perfect for formal designs. Discover how Laurus Nobilis, Pencil Pines, Ficus Hillii, and Pyrus Capital bring structure, symmetry, and year-round beauty to your landscape.
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5 Fire-Resistant Trees to Safeguard Your Landscape
In fire-prone areas, creating a fire-resistant garden is not just about aesthetics—it’s about safety and sustainability. The right tree selection can significantly reduce the risk of fire spreading to your property while still providing beauty, shade, and functionality. By choosing fire-retardant trees, you can create a landscape that is both resilient and visually appealing. In this guide, we’ll explore five exceptional fire-resistant trees—Acmena smithii ‘Firescreen’, Brachychiton acerifolius, Quercus suber, Platanus x acerifolia, and Olea europaea—and explain why they are ideal for fire-prone regions. Why Fire-Resistant Trees Are Essential Fire-resistant trees help slow down bushfires and protect your property. The best trees have: High Moisture Content – Less likely to ignite. Low Flammability – Minimal oils and resins. Thick Bark – Insulates against heat. Low Leaf Litter – Reduces fuel for fires. Read below to see our Top 5 recommendations 1. Acmena smithii ‘Firescreen’ (Lilly Pilly) Acmena smithii ‘Firescreen’ is a standout choice for fire-prone areas. This fast-growing evergreen tree is specifically bred for its fire-resistant properties, making it an excellent option for hedging and privacy screens. Key Features: Height: 4-8m Width: 2-4m Growth Rate: Fast Best For: Hedging, privacy screens, and fire-prone areas Why It’s Fire-Resistant: Dense foliage with high moisture content. Can be maintained at various heights, making it versatile for different landscapes. Consider This If:You need a fast-growing, low-maintenance tree that provides both privacy and fire protection. Might Not Be Ideal If:You’re looking for a large shade tree, as it’s more suited to hedging and screening. 2. Brachychiton acerifolius (Illawarra Flame Tree) The Illawarra Flame Tree is a deciduous tree known for its stunning red flowers and thick, moisture-rich leaves. Its natural characteristics make it highly resistant to fire. Key Features: Height: 10-20m Width: 5-10m Growth Rate: Moderate Best For: Shade, ornamental features, and fire-prone areas Why It’s Fire-Resistant: Thick leaves with high moisture content are slow to ignite. Produces minimal leaf litter, reducing ground fuel. Consider This If:You want a striking ornamental tree that also provides fire protection. Might Not Be Ideal If:You need year-round foliage, as it is deciduous and loses its leaves in summer. 3. Quercus suber (Cork Oak) The Cork Oak is a remarkable tree known for its thick, corky bark, which provides exceptional fire resistance. This tree is a long-term investment for larger landscapes. Key Features: Height: 10-20m Width: 10-15m Growth Rate: Slow to moderate Best For: Large landscapes, drought-tolerant gardens, and fire-prone areas Why It’s Fire-Resistant: Thick, insulating bark that can survive intense heat. Regenerates after fire exposure, making it a resilient choice. Consider This If:You have a large property and want a durable, fire-resistant tree with unique aesthetic appeal. Might Not Be Ideal If:You need a fast-growing tree or have limited space. 4. Platanus x acerifolia (London Plane Tree) The London Plane Tree is a popular urban tree known for its high water content and thick bark, making it an excellent choice for fire resistance. Key Features: Height: 15-20m Width: 10-15m Growth Rate: Fast Best For: Urban landscapes, large rural properties, and fire-prone areas Why It’s Fire-Resistant: High water content in leaves and thick bark. Sheds bark naturally, reducing fuel accumulation. Consider This If:You need a large shade tree that is both fire-resistant and low-maintenance. Might Not Be Ideal If:You have a small garden, as this tree requires ample space to grow. 5. Olea europaea (Olive Tree) The Olive Tree is a classic choice for fire-resistant landscaping. Its thick, leathery leaves and low oil content make it highly resistant to ignition. Key Features: Height: 5-10m Width: 4-6m Growth Rate: Moderate Best For: Hedging, windbreaks, and ornamental landscapes Why It’s Fire-Resistant: Thick, moisture-retaining leaves. Low volatile oil content, reducing flammability. Consider This If:You want a versatile, drought-tolerant tree with a Mediterranean aesthetic. Might Not Be Ideal If:You live in an area with frequent frost, as olive trees prefer warm, dry climates. How to Choose the Right Fire-Resistant Tree When selecting trees for a fire-resistant garden, consider the following factors: Local Climate: Choose trees that thrive in your region’s climate and soil conditions. Growth Rate: Fast-growing trees provide quicker protection, but slower-growing species may offer greater longevity. Maintenance: Opt for trees that produce minimal leaf litter and require less pruning. Space: Ensure the tree’s mature size fits your landscape without overcrowding. Planting Tips for Fire-Resistant Trees Position Wisely: Plant trees at a safe distance from structures to reduce fire risk. Soil Preparation: Use well-draining soil to promote healthy root growth. Mulching: Apply mulch to retain moisture, but avoid piling it against the trunk to prevent rot. Regular Maintenance: Prune dead branches and remove fallen leaves to minimize fuel for fires. Benefits of Fire-Resistant Trees Enhanced Safety: Reduce the risk of fire spreading to your home. Environmental Protection: Improve air quality and support local ecosystems. Aesthetic Appeal: Create a beautiful, functional landscape that withstands fire threats. FAQs Q: How close can I plant fire-resistant trees to my home?A: Maintain a distance of at least 5-10 meters from structures to reduce fire risk. Q: Are these trees suitable for small gardens?A: Some, like Acmena smithii ‘Firescreen’ and Olea europaea, are compact and ideal for smaller spaces. Q: How often should I prune these trees?A: Prune annually to remove dead branches and maintain shape, especially before fire season. Disclaimer: The information provided in this guide is for general informational purposes only. While we recommend fire-resistant trees based on their natural characteristics, no tree or plant can be entirely fireproof. Fire behavior is unpredictable and depends on numerous factors, including environmental conditions, maintenance, and surrounding vegetation. We do not guarantee that planting these trees will prevent fire damage to your property. It is essential to follow local fire safety regulations, maintain your landscape properly, and seek professional advice for your specific circumstances. We are not responsible for any property damage, personal injury, or losses resulting from fire, despite the use of the recommended trees or landscaping methods. By using this information, you acknowledge that it is your responsibility to assess and implement fire mitigation strategies best suited to your location. For further fire safety guidelines, consult your local fire authority or a qualified landscaping professional.
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How to Select the Right Trees for Coastal Gardens
Creating a coastal garden is both an exciting challenge and an opportunity to craft a stunning, low-maintenance outdoor space. The combination of salty air, strong winds, and sandy soil can make plant selection tricky, but choosing the right trees can turn these conditions into an advantage. Some trees are naturally equipped to withstand the harsh coastal environment while bringing beauty, shade, and a sense of tranquillity to your garden. In this post, we’ll explore five fantastic tree options for coastal gardens: Banksia integrifolia, Olea europaea (Olive Tree), Moonah Tree (Coastal Tea Tree), Crepe Myrtle Natchez, and Bay Trees for hedging. These trees are not only resilient in coastal conditions but also add character and charm to your landscape. Why Coastal Gardens Need the Right Tree Selection Coastal gardens often face the challenge of harsh environmental conditions, including salty winds, dry sandy soils, and unpredictable weather. Choosing the right tree species can make all the difference in creating a thriving garden. Some trees are naturally suited for these challenging conditions, thriving in salt-laden air, poor soils, and wind-battered environments. By selecting the right trees, you can enjoy a lush, vibrant garden that brings functionality—like shade, privacy, and wind protection—while still maintaining an aesthetically pleasing design. 1. Banksia integrifolia (Coastal Banksia) The Banksia integrifolia, or Coastal Banksia, is a standout choice for coastal gardens. Native to Australia’s east coast, this hardy evergreen tree is well-equipped to thrive in salty, windy environments with poor soil conditions. Why It’s Perfect for Coastal Gardens: Salt and Wind Tolerant: Naturally adapted to withstand coastal conditions, including strong winds and salt-laden air. Beautiful Foliage and Flowers: Long, narrow green leaves with silver undersides and vibrant yellow flowers that attract birds and wildlife. Low Maintenance: Once established, it’s incredibly low-maintenance. Key Facts: Mature Height: 10-25 meters Mature Width: 5-10 meters Growth Rate: Moderate to fast Tolerates: Wind, salt spray, drought, sandy soils Best Uses: Feature tree, screening, windbreak Shop Banksia integrifolia: Banksia integrifolia 2. Olea europaea (Olive Tree) The Olea europaea (Olive Tree) is a timeless choice that can thrive in coastal gardens. Known for its iconic silver-green foliage and gnarled bark, the olive tree adds an ancient, Mediterranean feel to your outdoor space. Why It’s Perfect for Coastal Gardens: Drought Tolerant: Highly drought-resistant once established. Salt Tolerant: Handles salty air with ease. Compact and Stylish: Slow to moderate growth rate, perfect for smaller gardens. Key Facts: Mature Height: 4-8 meters Mature Width: 4-6 meters Growth Rate: Slow to moderate Tolerates: Drought, wind, salt spray, poor soils Best Uses: Feature tree, ornamental, hedging Shop Olive Tree: Olea europaea 3. Moonah Tree (Coastal Tea Tree) The Moonah Tree (Coastal Tea Tree) is another excellent choice for coastal gardens. Native to coastal regions of Australia, this evergreen shrub or small tree is highly adapted to wind, salt, and sandy soil conditions. Why It’s Perfect for Coastal Gardens: Wind and Salt Resistant: Thrives in the toughest coastal conditions. Compact and Hardy: Dense foliage offers excellent screening and privacy. Low Maintenance: Requires minimal attention once established. Key Facts: Mature Height: 5-8 meters Mature Width: 4-5 meters Growth Rate: Moderate Tolerates: Wind, salt spray, drought, sandy soils Best Uses: Screening, hedging, coastal feature tree Shop Moonah Tree: Moonah Tree 4. Crepe Myrtle 'Natchez' If you're looking for a tree that adds vibrant color and charm to your coastal garden, the Crepe Myrtle is an excellent choice. Known for its stunning summer flowers, this tree can be grown successfully in coastal areas with some consideration. Why It’s Perfect for Coastal Gardens: Tolerates Coastal Conditions: Thrives with good drainage and some wind protection. Long-Lasting Blooms: Beautiful blooms in shades of pink, red, white, or purple. Compact and Versatile: Available in various sizes for small or large gardens. Key Facts: Mature Height: 3-8 meters Mature Width: 3-6 meters Growth Rate: Fast Tolerates: Drought, heat, coastal conditions (with some protection) Best Uses: Feature tree, ornamental, privacy screening Shop Crepe Myrtle: Crepe Myrtle 5. Bay Trees (Laurus nobilis) Bay Trees (Laurus nobilis) are a great choice for creating a low-maintenance, aromatic hedge in coastal gardens. These evergreen trees, with their dark green, aromatic leaves, can handle the coastal environment and provide a beautiful, functional addition to your outdoor space. Why They’re Perfect for Coastal Gardens: Tough and Hardy: Resistant to coastal winds and salt spray. Aromatic Foliage: Glossy, aromatic leaves for sensory appeal and culinary use. Privacy and Screening: Creates a dense, evergreen barrier for privacy and wind protection. Key Facts: Mature Height: 3-5 meters (as a hedge, can be trimmed to maintain shape) Mature Width: 1.5-2 meters Growth Rate: Moderate Tolerates: Wind, salt spray, drought, and poor soils Best Uses: Hedging, screening, ornamental Shop Bay Trees: Bay Trees Key Considerations for Coastal Tree Selection When choosing trees for your coastal garden, keep these factors in mind to ensure success: Wind Tolerance: Opt for trees resistant to wind damage. Salt Tolerance: Ensure the tree can handle salt-laden air and soil. Soil Quality: Coastal soils are typically sandy and poor in nutrients, so choose trees that thrive in these conditions. Water Requirements: Match the tree’s water needs to your garden’s drainage. Conclusion Selecting the right trees for your coastal garden is key to creating a thriving, low-maintenance landscape. Whether you opt for the hardy Banksia integrifolia, the timeless Olive Tree, the resilient Moonah Tree, the colorful Crepe Myrtle, or the versatile Bay Trees for hedging, each of these species brings something special to your coastal garden. Their ability to withstand wind, salt, and poor soils makes them the perfect choice for coastal conditions, ensuring your garden will flourish for years to come. FAQs Q: How can I protect young trees from strong coastal winds?A: Use temporary windbreaks or plant in sheltered areas until the trees establish deep roots. Q: How often should I water newly planted coastal trees?A: Water regularly during the first few months, especially in dry periods. Once established, many coastal trees are drought-tolerant. Q: Do I need to improve the soil before planting?A: Adding compost or organic matter can help boost nutrients and improve soil structure in sandy coastal soils.
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The Ultimate Guide to Planting Trees for a Vibrant Autumn
Transform your garden into a vibrant autumn paradise. Explore our curated collection of trees, from the fiery reds of the 'October Glory' Maple to the golden elegance of the Ginkgo. Discover the perfect specimen to add structure, shade, and lasting value to your landscape. Visit www.evergreentrees.com.au
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The Best Hedging Trees to Plant Poolside
Looking to enhance your pool area with privacy and a gorgeous backdrop? Discover the best hedging trees to plant poolside, from the lush, weeping foliage of Waterhousia floribunda to the elegant, compact form of Magnolia ‘Teddy Bear’. These trees create a dense screen, add year-round beauty, and elevate the style of your outdoor space.
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