The subtropical climate in Brisbane means we can use our gardens and outdoor areas all year round. Plus we get to enjoy the delights of decks, pools and green spaces in all seasons.
We have ideas for making kid-friendly gardens, making neighbour-friendly fences, as well as some great landscaping ideas from experts like Hawkins. A Mediterranean style garden (PDF format) works well in drier areas and with less water. In wetter times, or if your watering system is fed from rainwater tanks, a truly tropical garden (PDF format) may suit.
Deck
Deck, verandah, patio, pergola. No matter what you call it, an outdoor living space is an integral part of life in Brisbane. Our great weather means it’s possible to take advantage of it as an outdoor room almost all year round. And whether your deck is a large living area or a small balcony, there are ways you can add plants and garden features to bring it to life.
Jackie French has written a great article on gardening for hot, bare balconies.
Hanging baskets, large pots, clusters of herbs - all combine to make your deck or balcony a welcoming green space.
Make sure your deck can support large pots. They weigh a lot when full of soil, plants and water. Regularly check that a wooden deck is not rotting near the plant pots and at joints.
You will need to make sure plants are kept well watered as they may not get any rainwater on a covered deck.
Best to have a couple of larger pots instead of many small pots; they are easier to care for and look less cluttered.
Our directory has details of:
- deck and patio builders
- or experts in balcony plants and pots
Pools
Creating a pleasant garden in your pool area requires thoughtful selection of plants and consideration of some practical limitations. For example, plants will be exposed to chlorine or salt water splashing. Plus they need to complement the style of garden and work within the pool fencing laws.
Some top plants for around pools include:
- Palms
- Philodendron
- Bougainvillea for tropical colour (try and get the thornless varieties)
- Grass type plants, such as mondo grass or agapanthus
- Foliage plants to add colour such as crotons and bromeliads .
Don’t use deciduous plants such as frangipani or jacaranda or you will be kept extremely busy taking leaves and flowers out of the water. If your pool is under trees that drop leaves, consider getting a pool cover. You'll save water being lost to evaporation too. Brisbane City Council offers eligible residents pool cover rebates for new pool covers.
If you are considering building a pool, or perhaps renovating an existing pool, take a look at the Swimming Pool and Spa Association (SPASA) website. They provide advice on selecting a builder and a list of association members. Plus there is a brief guide to suitable plants for pool areas.
Our directory has listings of:
If you don’t have space for a pool, what about installing a spa? They're warm in winter and cool in summer.
Proper fencing is required for both spas and pools. Take a look at the current laws to ensure your pool complies and the fencing guidelines provided by Brisbane City Council.
Fencing
A good fence keeps pets on your property, stops children running onto the road and defines your home. You can choose from many styles and building materials.
If you live within Brisbane City, the Council does not need to approve your fence unless it is over two metres high. Most people choose to build a fence within character of the suburb and neighbouring houses. Look at the fences in your area and think about which types match your home.
If you want to hire someone to build fences, gates or retaining walls, check our directory for local tradesmen.
Use this fencing checklist to ensure you’re building the right kind of fence for your property.
The Justice Department of Queensland has useful information about avoiding conflict with your neighbour over fences or trees.
Kid-friendly gardens
If possible, provide a free space for children to dig and plant. Even just a small patch of unlandscaped garden will give kids the freedom to create their own fairy garden, space centre or dozens of other imaginary locations. A simple box of sand will provide hours of entertainment for young children.
Keep in mind that some plants are poisonous or will cause skin problems. Children are particularly susceptible as they are inquisitive enough to pick, eat or rub plants in the garden. This fact sheet from a children’s hospital is helpful for identifying poisonous or dangerous plants.
Bird baths, bird feeders, possum or other wildlife boxes will all appeal to the children in your family and will help the local animals. Hawkins Nursery has a good article about attracting wildlife (PDF format) to your garden.
What about keeping a few chickens? Northey Street City Farm has courses on keeping chickens in your backyard. The kids will have a pet and you’ll enjoy fresh eggs.
And every kid loves a cubby house! The major hardware stores have simple plans you can follow to build one and Burke’s Backyard also tells us how to construct a cubby house.
For expert guidance our directory has listings for:
