What tall privacy screening plants can be grown above ground?

[Almico]

Hello! Looking for plant/tree advice to add privacy between two double-storey blocks of flats in Melbourne.

We want to plant something in raised garden beds along a 10m section of fence in a concreted communal area, we’re hoping to grow something around 3-4 metres tall, with dense foliage for the privacy screening. The area gets some late morning to midday sun but is also shaded by both buildings. Is growing something to a height of 3-4 meters in raised gardens beds (sitting on concrete) possible?

We’re considering bamboo (which grows well at the back of the neighboring block) but also thinking natives like lilly pilly would be better. Ideally need something that doesn’t need too much maintenance and that also won’t drop too much mess on the concrete.

Any advice would be much appreciated!

[Jason]

Hi @Almico,

A good starting point is our guide How to choose a screening plant.

Jason

[EricL]

Hello @Almico 

I suggest having a quick look at our best advice - What plants are good for screening? There is a nice short list of plants that were recommended and that includes the Lilly Pilly. My neighbour currently has a bamboo plant in their backyard, and it sheds a great number of leaves. I think between the two the Lilly Pilly is more conservative in regards to leaf shedding.

Please note that if the garden bed is too narrow or if there is not enough space for the roots to spread it will hinder the tree's ability to grow bigger.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric