Does anyone know what are the best plants to use around a transformer box in our yard?

Question

The builder was supposed to landscape before they left, but did not, so we are on our own. These boxes are an eyesoar and need to be hidden, but accessible.

Answer 1

You need to leave plenty of room around the transformer for utility workers to access it, otherwise they will just hack off whatever you have planted - Yes they can do that...

Also, you need to remember if you're digging anywhere near the transformer there are buried high voltage wires down there. If you hit one with a shovel you will quite likely DIE.

So consider planting something cheap, that you won't feel bad if the utility crews cut it down. Also consider planting the smallest sized pots you can find. That way you can dig much smaller holes with a hand trowel and avoid damaging any wires you may encounter.

As for what plant would work best for you, that depends alot on your climate and soil. What would work great in south Florida would be inappropriate in Alaska. Look around your neighboring areas for plants that you like the look of. Then talk to someone at your local garden center (preferably one NOT attached to a big box store). They will be the best resource to tell you what grows well where you live.

Answer 2

You need to choose plants that are more heat-tolerant than the ones for the rest of your yard. A transformer produces a LOT of heat, and whatever you plant is going to feel the effects of it. Be sure that there is still plenty of ventilation around the transformer, or you may end up owing the phone/power company a BUCH of $$

I suggest shrubs that are compact and neat, that won't drop a lot of leaves, or adhere to the transformer. You might consider contacting the phone/electric company to find out if they have any recommendations and/or restrictions that you should know about.

Answer 3

Make a box out of trellis material framed with 2x4's and put a hinge on one side, and a latch on the other. If you want something green you could plant clematis or any vining plant on 3 sides and leave the side that faces away from your house bare. Or you could attach flower boxes that can be removed. Even if you don't plant anything, a trellis in a tight criss cross pattern will make more of a difference tahn you can imagine.

Answer 4

Evergreen shrubs that would cover the box in height and width would be the best bet. Make sure that they are evergreen because otherwise in fall and winter your box would still be exposed.

Answer 5

ornamental grasses are well suited to such a space miscanthus or pampas grass are good choices