Decorating with artificial hedges is great, but it can go very wrong very quickly if you don’t know what you’re doing.
Faux hedges can be the ideal decor element for both residential and commercial spaces. But, to decorate well, you need to consider a few things before deciding on your artificial hedge.
The assumption that using fauxliege to decorate means going completely hands-off is wildly inaccurate. Although you don’t need the same mental and physical energy to upkeep your artificial plants, you need to know what you’re doing to avoid 5 common mistakes that can ruin your aesthetic.
To help you get it right the first time, we’ve outlined the 5 pitfalls to avoid when styling with artificial hedges and provided actionable advice to fix the issues before they become prominent.
Let’s get into it.
5 Common Mistakes When Decorating With Artificial Hedges
Before buying and using your new artificial hedge, you need to have all the information at your fingertips.
Prepare in advance to make sure you don’t make any of these mistakes:
Buying low-quality artificial hedges
One of the worst mistakes you can make with any decor, including artificial hedges, is sacrificing quality. Cutting corners is not the way to go when picking your fauxliege. Unfortunately, not all faux hedges or plants are made equal.
Some are toxic and will break down quickly, while others may outlive their natural counterparts.
Cheap, poorly made fake hedges may look fine at first, but over time, they fade, crack, or even pose health risks due to the materials used in production. Our founder, David Eden, has long been educating customers on the risks of opting for the cheapest option. He warns:
“Some artificial hedges contain toxic materials like lead and phthalates. Without proper testing, they may release harmful chemicals, especially under sun exposure.”
This is particularly concerning for families with children or pets, as prolonged exposure to these chemicals can have adverse health effects. To avoid this, always check for certifications that guarantee your artificial hedge screening is non-toxic and safe for both indoor and outdoor use.
For example, we at Designer Plants offer a 5-year crack and fade guarantee for our artificial hedges, along with test reports that substantiate our quality claims. Any potential customer can access these documents and verify them.
Reputable suppliers conduct extensive UV and durability testing (over 5,000 hours worth!), ensuring their outdoor artificial hedge stays lush and green for years. These “extras” drive up the price of premium quality hedges, but they also give you peace of mind that you’re protected.
A good rule of thumb is to look for hedges with:
- UV protection to prevent fading
- Fire resistance for added safety
- Non-toxic, high-quality materials
- Sturdy backing and easy installation
If you want the best artificial hedges, invest in quality from the start.
Not Cleaning Your Hedges
Just because artificial hedges don’t need water or fertiliser doesn’t mean they’re completely maintenance-free. We like to say they’re almost no-maintenance, but there are still a few things you should do to maintain their beauty.
One of the biggest mistakes people make is assuming their fake hedges will always look perfect. Over time, dust, dirt, and even cobwebs can accumulate, making your hedges look dull, lifeless, and fake.
If you don’t clean your artificial hedges regularly, the buildup of grime can take away the fresh, vibrant look that makes artificial boxwood hedges such a great decorative choice.
So, if you want to retain that evergreen look for years, here’s a quick rundown on how to keep your hedges looking fresh:
- Dust them off with a soft brush to remove surface dirt every few weeks. If your artificial hedge wall is outdoor in a high-traffic area, you may need to do this more often.
- Rinse them down with a hose and give your outdoor artificial hedge a gentle spray. A light wash every couple of months will keep it looking brand new.
- Use mild soap for stubborn dirt if you notice any sticky spots or buildup. Mix a little dish soap with water, wipe the hedge down with a sponge, and rinse thoroughly.
- Check for wear and tear and inspect your hedge for any loose panels or fading. The best artificial hedge in Australia should hold up well, but you still need the occasional maintenance.
Neglecting the existing decor
Not every artificial hedge will suit every space, and that’s where many go wrong. Choosing the wrong style, size, or type of hedge for your surroundings can make your decor look disjointed rather than effortless.
A mismatched artificial hedge screening can clash with your existing design and make your outdoor or indoor space look confusing.
Luckily, there’s an easy fix to this faux pas – you just need to answer a few questions, jot down your answers, and check your chosen hedge against these wishes. Think about how your boxwood artificial hedges will complement your existing decor and ask yourself:
- What’s the vibe of the space? If you’re going for a sleek, modern look, a neatly trimmed artificial hedge wall for outdoor will work best. But if your space has a more natural feel, a dense, wild-looking artificial buxus hedge might blend in better.
- What’s the purpose of the hedge? Are you using it for privacy, aesthetics, or both? For privacy, a tall, dense outdoor artificial hedge is a smart pick. For pure decoration, smaller panels or framed sections of fake hedges can give you the greenery fix without overwhelming the space.
- What’s the best colour and texture? Not all artificial hedges in Australia come in the same shade of green. Some are deep forest green, while others have lighter, yellowish tones. Make sure the colour you choose complements your walls, flooring, and furniture.
- How will it be installed? If you’re using artificial hedge screening as a backdrop for an alfresco dining area, think about how it fits with tables, chairs, and lighting. For balcony setups, ensure it doesn’t overpower the space or block too much natural light.
Forgoing UV resistance
Most artificial hedges in Australia are used outdoors, yet many buyers forget to check for UV resistance.
The result?
Fading, cracking, and a hedge that looks years older than it actually is.
UV resistance should be the first thing you check off your list, especially if you want an artificial hedge that lasts more than a few months. Quality suppliers are backed by authoritative third-party labs and organisations that can attest to the standards and tactics used during production, manufacturing, and distribution.
At Designer Plants, we conduct rigorous testing, exposing our artificial hedges to 5,000+ hours of UV light to ensure long-lasting colour and durability. And of course, we have the reports to prove it upon request.
If your hedges are for outdoor use, make sure they have built-in UV protection—otherwise, you’ll be replacing them sooner than you’d like.
Overdecorating or underdecorating your space
Balance is key when decorating with fake hedges.
In an effort to revamp an area, many people go overboard and crowd the space. This is the easiest way to make your garden look cluttered. On the other hand, others use too few hedges and leave awkward gaps that can’t be filled with additional decor.
Here’s how to strike the right balance:
- Measure your space before purchasing to determine how many panels you need
- Consider layering other elements like potted plants or decorative screens
- Avoid placing hedges too close together unless you want a dense, blocked-off look
In any case, proper planning ensures your artificial hedge enhances the space without overwhelming it. If you need more information about your particular space, contact our team and we’ll be right on the case.
Finishing Thoughts
Decorating with artificial hedges is an easy way to bring greenery into your space, but avoiding these 5 common mistakes is crucial to getting the best results.
By choosing high-quality hedges, keeping them clean, selecting the right type, ensuring UV protection, and decorating in moderation, you’ll create a long-lasting green feature that withstands the elements.
Whether for privacy, aesthetics, or ambience, the right artificial hedge can transform any indoor or outdoor area into an inviting space.
