Roughly two million burglaries occur each year. Protect your home and family by using simple landscaping strategies that don't compromise your home's appearance or value.
For practical guidance that links landscaping with insurance considerations, see Landscaping Safety and Insurance Tips.
Five landscaping tricks that deter burglars
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Place hostile plants by entryways
Burglars typically target easily accessible windows and doors. Planting thorny or prickly species—roses, holly, raspberries, bird's nest spruce, needle bushes or Spanish bayonet—near those entry points makes access harder and more discouraging.
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Trim shrubbery near the house
Overgrown shrubs give burglars places to hide and block neighbors' sightlines. Keep shrubs along the home's exterior trimmed to under three feet and remove vegetation that presses against the siding or windows.
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Use noisy ground cover
Materials that crunch underfoot, like pea gravel or decorative stones, make quiet movements difficult and alert you and neighbors to someone approaching windows or doors.
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Install short, open-design fencing
Tall solid fences increase privacy but can also hide intruders. Choose lower fences with open designs and trim tree canopies so visibility from the street remains clear.
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Turn on the lights
Motion-activated or well-placed pathway and entry lighting reduces hiding spots and can frighten off intruders; place lights near doors, windows and walkways for best coverage.
These steps help your landscaping add both curb appeal and security. For more ideas on making your yard safer while protecting property value, review Landscaping Safety and Security Tips.
If you want to discuss specific changes for your property, you can talk to your agent about landscaping measures and how they relate to your home insurance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will thorny plants damage my siding or windows?
When properly placed and maintained, thorny plants can deter intruders without touching siding or windows; keep a safe distance and trim regularly.
How tall should shrubs be near ground-floor windows?
Keeping shrubs under three feet tall near windows maintains visibility and reduces hiding spots for potential intruders.
Are motion-activated lights better than constant outdoor lighting?
Motion-activated lights are effective because they startle intruders and draw attention, while well-placed constant lighting also improves overall visibility.
Can landscaping changes affect my home insurance?
Security-focused landscaping can reduce risk, and discussing changes with an agent helps determine whether they influence your coverage or discounts.