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It is best to plant seeds, seedlings or cuttings in two staggered rows so
that an impenetrable fence or hedge is formed. The distance between
the rows can be 15-30 cm with the same space within the rows.
Directly sown fences must be well looked after and protected initially.

Management aspects

Fences and hedges need regular trimming so as not to overgrow
(see Case Reports No. 15 and 16 for details). Some species which are
very thorny, e.g. Caesalpinia decapetala, are sometimes regarded as
too difficult to manage and should be avoided if the thorniness is not
really needed as a deterrent to cattle. Live fences are often combined
with trees for the production of wood. Either some stems of the fence
species can be allowed to grow large, e.g. cypress, or trees of another
species can be planted in the fence and allowed to grow well protected
by the fence.
If live fences are to be introduced it is essential to consider the land-
use pattern throughout the year. Fires are a hazard for many species,
and livestock may be a threat in the initial stages.

Benefits

Fences and hedges are often multipurpose. Some of their uses are to:

 Provide shade and a windbreak for the compound
 Control movement of cattle
 Be ornamental
 Provide protection for chickens against birds of prey
 Provide privacy
 Production of mulch, fruit, bee forage or wood
 Help in soil conservation.

There are few risks. Live fences require labor for maintenance, and if
they are not maintained they lose their intended function and begin to
compete with crops. Caesalpinia decapetala may be too thorny to have
near houses as children may suffer. The latex of Euphorbia tirucalli is
very poisonous and dangerous for the eyes. Fences and hedges may
harbour snakes, and some shrub species may turn into weeds,
e.g. Lantana camara. Thevetia peruviana is also very poisonous.

Table 8: Examples of species good for boundaries

Common name Scientific Name Common name Scientific name
Thorny Acacia Acacia brevispa Gum Arabic Acacia nilotica
Species Tree
Umbrella Acacia tortilis Century Plant Agave sisalana
Thron
Wheel Tree Albizia amara Soap Berry Tree Balanites spp.