Sustainable landscape around a pool

Creating a stunning pool landscape that isn't hungry on resources takes a sprinkle of wisdom, and requires consideration of existing vegetation and some wise plant choices.

Shed those preconceived ideas of gardens

Gone are the days of bush gardens having to look like the bush - a sustainable landscape doesn't have to seem like an unruly mess of thirsty-looking shrubs. Natives can now fulfill all the roles once limited to exotics, such as screening, groundcover, highlight plants, accent plants and colours.

Get a water tank

Install a water tank of sufficient size (minimum 10,000 litres for an average block) next to the pool so it can top up the pool and irrigate the garden. Good design will also use the topography of the landscape to channel water where it's needed.

Resist the temptation to start with a blank gardening canvas

Take account of existing vegetation for windbreaks, shading and views in your pool landscape. The choice between what stays and goes can mean big reductions in heating and cooling costs. Deciduous plants offer excellent shade protection in summer, but allow the sun to penetrate in winter.

Choose garden vegetation that is water efficient

Native grass species and succulents are some good choices. Species tolerant to coastal conditions are suited to pool areas, as they're used to high salt and drought conditions. Many exotics are actually low water users, as they've evolved in Australia for hundreds of years.

Make it good enough to eat

Food-producing plants compatible with pool landscapes include evergreen fruiting trees such as fejoa and citrus, and herbs like rosemary, lavender and thyme. Border plantings using attractive edibles like chili, parsley, chives and some mints are good choices too.

Contact a landscape designer in your area to find out more about a sustainable landscape: