Home burglaries are surprisingly common. In any given year, approximately one out of every thirty-six homes will be burglarized. Any home can be burglarized. However, it's important to remember that most burglars are looking for a home that's an easy target. Most homeowners use things such as locks and security systems in order to lower their chances of being a target. Another thing that can actually help dissuade would-be burglars is landscaping. Here are three landscaping techniques that can help keep a home safe. 

Make Use Of Retaining Walls

Retaining walls are used for a variety of reasons. Often they are used to keep soil or a foundation in place. What many homeowners don't realize is that these walls can be used to help prevent a home burglary. Adding a fence on top of a retaining wall can make it even harder for a burglar to make it into the yard. Retaining walls are already raised up, adding a fence will add a few more feet of material for a burglar to scale. The average cost of a retaining wall is $2,903 to $7,493. The cost to add a fence averages between $1,577 and $3,700.

Have Security Lighting

A well lit outdoor space is also a deterrent to burglars since it increases their chances of being seen by either neighbors or the homeowners. Motion sensor security lighting is also a great landscaping choice since it can illuminate any dark areas when someone enters the property. The cost of outdoor security lighting varies depending on the type of lighting used. The cost is usually between $75 and $200 for the lighting with $30 to $250 in labor costs. Security lighting is also a great addition to the landscape since it also help highlight the beauty of the landscape at night and add to the home's curb appeal.

Add Prickly Plants Near Entryways

There are also a few adjustments that can be made to the landscape in terms of plant choice. Adding prickly plants such as cacti and roses near entry points can make it a lot harder for burglars to break in. Another landscaping option is to keep plants and hedges trimmed. This will provide homeowners with a good sight line at all times and remove potential spots for burglars to hide. 

Home burglaries are something that many Americans have to deal with every year. The good news is that there are a few landscape changes that can make burglaries less likely. Using retaining walls and fences to make it more difficult to enter the property is one great way to deter burglars. Adding security lighting to the landscape and planting prickly plants near entry ways can also help keep a home safe. For more information, contact local professionals like L & L Excavation & Landscaping.