Using plants as a defense mechanism is not something that is new.

Bushes from Wall to Window

A hedgerow of thorny bushes can go a long way to discouraging unwanted intruders. These bushes should be thick and tall enough to discourage intruders from fighting their way over or through. Yet they should also be cropped low enough to keep your home visible from the street. That way, thieves are less likely to go to work without being spotted.

Trees with thorns on their trunk and branches are less likely to be scaled in order to get to a second floor window or balcony. Some examples include:

• Argentine Mesquite (2-inch thorns),
• Black Locust (1 to 2-inch thorns that cause skin swelling),
• Honey Locust (sharp red thorns).

Thorn bearing bushes, especially when planted around windows, can be a nightmare to get caught up in. Just one brush against certain thorn bushes can be enough to send a thief packing. That is unless he’s wearing several layers of protective clothing and fueled with determination (or stupidity).

The pyracantha, or fire thorn bush Seeds, contains thorns that leave a burning sensation that lasts for hours. The catsclaw acacia also contains burning nettles that it conceals under yellow flowers and plumes of green leaves. Oregon grape holly (as well as other varieties of holly) is both attractive and dangerous with its abundance of multi-spiked leaves.

Then there’s always the many variety of cacti, most of which are covered in sharp and irritating thorns that can grow several inches in length. Vined plants that grow upward and out are another eye pleaser that also serve as a natural form of security. Bougainvillea (common to Central and South America) bloom beautiful pinkish-purple flowers that conceal pointy thorns.

Climbing varieties of roses can serve a similar purpose and be cultivated to span entire walls of your home. Blackberry and raspberry vines also grow thorns that serve to protect their fruits, giving you both protection and a supply of freshly grown food.

While not comprehensive, these ideas should at the very least get you started on the right path to finding what will fork for and around your home.

In today’s times, a locked door and security alarm isn’t always enough to stop a determined thief. But if your yard, walls, and windows are covered with defensive bushes and plants, most thieves will think twice before attempting to break in.

Source: Survivopeida