What’s an artificial hedge got to do with the appearance of your space?
A lot, especially when you get the right one.
Artificial hedges are the perfect way to bring greenery into your home, office or terrace without worrying about the boring part of watering, trimming, or dealing with pests.
Whether you want to jazz up your backyard, create some privacy, or add a splash of greenery to a commercial setting, there’s an artificial hedge to suit your needs.
In this guide, we’ll take a deep dive into the best artificial hedges, what makes them great, and how to pick the perfect one for your space.
3 Best Types of Artificial Hedges
Unfortunately, not all fake hedges are created equal.
Some look more natural, others offer better privacy, and some are just there to make a statement.
In fact, every piece of fake greenery is unique and has a unique role in improving your space.
So, here are our top picks for artificial hedge screening that will transform your space, compiled and crafted following our many successful customer projects:
Classic Boxwood
Boxwood is the go-to hedge for a timeless, sophisticated look. It’s likely also the one you’re most familiar with.
Boxwood is a favourite among homeowners and businesses because of its dense, small leaves and deep green hue. A boxwood artificial hedge works wonders as a privacy wall, backdrop, or decorative touch, such as our Portable Boxwood Hedge that fits both residential and commercial spaces.
These hedge panels are perfect for outdoor use, thanks to their UV resistance, ensuring they won’t fade or crack under the harsh Aussie sun. Here’s a recent DIY project with a boxwood hedge our team loved:
Install it along fences, balconies, or even interior walls for a lush, long-lasting green touch.
Best for:
- Privacy screens
- Feature walls
- Elegant garden accents
Pro tip: If you want a natural, seamless look, mix different shades of green panels to add dimension.
Lush Elm
If you’re after a more dynamic and fuller appearance, an Elm artificial hedge wall is a stellar choice. These hedges have broader leaves and a slightly wilder growth pattern, which brings a more organic, free-flowing vibe to your space.
A standout example is the Portable Elm Hedge. Unlike traditional boxwood, elm hedges have a mix of deep and light green tones, making them perfect for contemporary settings.
Plus, their non-toxic materials make them safe for homes with pets or kids. We’ve got the certificates to prove it all!
Best for:
- Creating a natural feel
- Balconies and patios
- Restaurant or café décor
Pro tip: Pair it with climbing plants or fairy lights for a magical outdoor space.
Dense Buxus
For those who need maximum privacy and coverage, a buxus artificial hedge screening is the way to go. Known for its ultra-thick foliage, Buxus hedges block out nosy neighbors and create a peaceful, green retreat.
For example, our Deluxe Portable Buxus Hedge is a top choice for privacy, boasting lifelike foliage that looks just as good up close as it does from a distance. With a realistic texture and varied leaf shapes, this hedge is ideal for homes and commercial spaces looking to up their curb appeal.
Best for:
- High-security privacy walls
- Windbreaks and sound barriers
- Commercial properties and office spaces
Pro tip: Buxus hedges work brilliantly as temporary partitions for events or pop-up spaces.
How to Pick a High-Quality Artificial Hedge
So, how do you pick the right artificial boxwood hedge (or any other variety) without getting ripped off?
Here’s what to look for:
1. Shop for your space
We already mentioned that not all artificial hedges are built the same. As such, different spaces call for different types of artificial hedges.
Are you decking out a residential backyard or a commercial space?
If it’s a home project, go for something with a softer, natural finish like boxwood. For commercial settings, opt for denser, more structured hedges like a tall artificial buxus hedge.
Remember that even if you really love a type of faux hedge in a particular space, it doesn’t mean it’ll look the same somewhere else. Go into your buying journey with a vision in mind and stick to it. Not all pretty artificial hedges are meant for your space, but there’s certainly at least one that is.
2. Consider the style
A hedge isn’t just a hedge – it needs to fit your existing decor and atmosphere. Your artificial hedge panel should complement your space and add to it, not take away from it or overshadow the rest of your items.
Don’t buy a faux hedge just because it looks pretty without regard to your existing design.
Want something lush and wild? Look for faux hedges with wider leaves or mix a few different hedge types together for a custom look.
After something super neat and sculpted? Opt for a classic buxus od boxwood without too much going on to enrich the existing space without attracting all the attention.
Think about the aesthetics of your space before making a choice and talk to experienced decorators and suppliers to help you choose.
3. Measure the space
Before you hit ‘add to cart,’ grab a tape measure.
If you have a small space, don’t overwhelm it with a large faux hedge wall. Conversely, for bigger areas, a taller hedge may provide the coverage and impact the space needs without crowding it.
Many hedge panels come in standard sizes, but there are also a few products in different sizes. To ensure you get just the right product, measure the area where you want to place your hedge at least twice.
Then, use our online calculator to figure out exactly how many panels you need to cover it, accounting for wastage, as well.
4. Have a Budget
The price of artificial hedge screening varies depending on quality, UV resistance, and fireproofing. Don’t go for the cheapest option – you’ll regret it when it fades or falls apart within a year.
We recommended looking for a balance between quality and affordability.
If you get a dirt-cheap artificial hedge, you’ll probably pay for replacements down the line and may even deal with toxicity. On the other hand, although investing in a premium artificial hedge may be costlier upfront, it can save you from ongoing expenses later on.
So, think about how much you can realistically afford without burning a hole in your wallet or risk dealing with a degraded hedge after a few months.
5. Look for UV resistance
If you’re placing your hedge outdoors, UV resistance is non-negotiable. Cheaper, non-UV-protected options fade fast under the Aussie sun, while protected foliage can last for up to 5 years and beyond.
Look for hedges treated with UV protection, like our UV-protected range which has undergone rigorous testing of over 5,000 hours.
Our founder, David, began sending in our artificial greenery for testing with authorized labs from the very beginning of Designer Plants because he was also shopping for himself. After finding the perfect material, he made sure to create processes that ensure the greenery we offer won’t fade or crack even after years of usage.
Finishing Thoughts
Finding the best artificial hedges is all about choosing a style that suits your space, ensuring it’s high quality, and picking a design that complements your aesthetic.
When you think about it, you only need 5 steps to find the perfect artificial hedge for your space.
Whether it’s boxwood, elm, or buxus, investing in a top-notch hedge means you’ll have a stunning green feature that lasts for years.
For bespoke advice or more information about our artificial hedges, contact our team – we’ll be happy to help.
FAQ
Artificial hedges are realistic-looking, low-maintenance greenery panels made from synthetic materials. They mimic the appearance of natural hedges without the need for watering, trimming, or pest control. Fake hedges are available in various styles, are great for creating privacy screens, decorating walls, or enhancing outdoor and indoor spaces.
The lifespan of an artificial hedge depends on its quality and placement. High-quality UV-resistant artificial hedge screening can last anywhere from 5 to 10 years when used outdoors, while indoor hedges can last even longer. Investing in premium materials ensures durability and a fresh, green look for years.
Standard fake hedges may fade over time when exposed to direct sunlight, but top-quality options come with UV protection to prevent discolouration. If you’re using an artificial hedge wall outdoor, always choose UV-tested products to ensure long-lasting vibrancy, even under the harsh sun.
To clean an artificial hedge, use a soft brush or cloth to remove dust, or give it a quick rinse with water. For tougher grime, mix mild soap with water and gently wipe down the leaves. If your hedge is exposed to pollution or the elements, a periodic clean-up will keep it looking fresh and lush.
