By Robert E. Rodgers
Photos by Bobby Rodgers
Living Fences are as happy to see the rain return as us humanoids. After our favorite canine friend, the living fence might be our most natural way of providing a layer of protection for those places requiring controlled egress and ingress. Our preferred example for a measure of safety and security in the residential setting is the planting of the Bougainvillea, both beautiful and spiny (to discourage the bad guys). This living fence is adding a layer of security as well as functioning as an ornamental landscaping feature: good bang for buck.
A more husbandry-related use of the living fence dots the Costa Rican landscape. Most of us have probably passed or have seen pictures of the “trees” planted along the perimeter of the fields, connected to one another by typical barbed wire. This type of living fence is both a good value for your money, and environmentally sustaining as well.
First of all, this fencing is free; make a cutting from an existing tree, stick it in the ground, and it will grow. No toxins are added to the soils as from a store bought pre-treated fence post.
If enclosing a crop field, the living fence can provide a wind buffer; and if a cattle field, can provide shade for the animals.
Our safety and security extend beyond our residences and fields and include the health of the environment as well.
By planting a living fence another tree does not have to be cut down, thus we are not only adding one tree to the mix, but also saving another tree from being cut down.
More trees represent less carbon dioxide in the air.
Everybody wins with the Living Fence.
