5 Popular Landscaping Tricks That Are Making You a Target for Burglars
You take pride in your home’s curb appeal, spending weekends perfecting your landscaping and making your yard the envy of the neighborhood. But what if some of those popular landscaping tricks make your home more attractive to burglars? It’s a surprising reality: the very features that make your property look inviting can also make it vulnerable. According to the FBI, a burglary occurs every 26 seconds in the United States, and many of these crimes are crimes of opportunity, where thieves look for easy targets. Landscaping choices can either deter or invite these unwanted guests. If you want to keep your home safe, it’s time to rethink some common landscaping habits. Let’s dig into the five most regrettable landscaping tricks that could put your home at risk—and what you can do instead.
1. Tall Shrubs and Bushes Near Windows
It’s tempting to plant lush, tall shrubs under your windows for privacy and beauty. Unfortunately, these green giants can also provide perfect hiding spots for burglars. When bushes or hedges are tall enough to obscure windows, they give intruders a place to crouch and work unseen, especially at night. Overgrown landscaping is one of the top ways burglars gain cover during a break-in.
Keep shrubs trimmed low—ideally below window level to boost your home security. Opt for thorny plants like holly or barberry, which can deter anyone from getting too close. If you love greenery, consider planting lower-profile flowers or ground cover instead. Remember, visibility is your friend when it comes to deterring crime.
2. Decorative Fencing That’s Easy to Climb
A charming picket fence or decorative ironwork can add character to your yard, but if it’s easy to scale, it’s not doing much to protect your home. Many homeowners choose fences for their looks, not realizing that short or widely spaced designs can be a burglar’s best friend. A fence under six feet tall or with horizontal rails can help intruders get over more easily.
For better security, choose fencing that’s at least six feet high and difficult to climb. Vertical pickets with pointed tops are a good deterrent, as are solid panels that don’t offer handholds. If you already have a decorative fence, consider adding trellis panels with thorny climbing plants to make scaling it less appealing. The goal is to make your property as challenging as possible for would-be burglars.
3. Poor Outdoor Lighting
A beautifully lit garden can highlight your landscaping at night, but many homeowners either skip outdoor lighting altogether or use it ineffectively. Dark corners, shadowy pathways, and unlit entryways invite burglars to approach undetected. According to the National Crime Prevention Council, well-placed lighting is one of the simplest and most effective ways to deter crime.
Install motion-activated lights near all entrances, pathways, and dark areas around your home. Solar-powered lights are a budget-friendly option for illuminating walkways and driveways. Remember to check bulbs regularly and replace any that have burned out. Good lighting showcases your landscaping and sends a clear message: this home is watched and cared for.
4. Hiding Spare Keys in Obvious Spots
It’s a classic move: tucking a spare key under a rock, inside a fake sprinkler, or beneath a flowerpot. While it might seem clever, burglars know all the usual hiding places. Landscaping features like decorative rocks or garden statues are often the first places a thief will check. A study by Consumer Reports found that nearly 30% of burglars enter through an unlocked door or by using a hidden key.
Instead of hiding keys outside, give a spare to a trusted neighbor or invest in a secure lockbox with a code. If you must hide a key, choose an unexpected location far from the front door and change the spot regularly. Upgrade to a smart lock system that eliminates the need for physical keys altogether.
5. Unsecured Garden Tools and Ladders
Leaving tools, ladders, or even sturdy garden furniture out in the open might seem harmless, but burglars can use these items to break into your home. A ladder left against the house is an open invitation to access second-story windows, while heavy tools can be used to smash locks or windows. Many break-ins are crimes of opportunity, and unsecured equipment makes a burglar’s job much easier.
Always store ladders, tools, and outdoor equipment in a locked shed or garage when not in use. If you don’t have a secure storage area, use a heavy-duty lock and chain to secure items together. Taking a few extra minutes to put things away can make a big difference in your home’s security.
Landscaping for Security: Beauty and Safety Can Coexist
Getting caught up in the latest landscaping trends is easy, but your home’s security should always come first. By making a few smart changes—like trimming shrubs, upgrading lighting, and securing outdoor items—you can enjoy a beautiful yard without making yourself a target for burglars. Remember, the best landscaping is attractive and functional, helping protect your home and loved ones. Don’t let regrettable landscaping tricks put your safety at risk. You can have the best of both worlds with a little planning: curb appeal and peace of mind.
Have you ever changed your landscaping for security reasons? Share your tips or stories in the comments below!
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