Looking to add a few new plants around your pool?
Whether you’re improving your existing pool, renovating your home, or just planning what your future pool will look like, your choice of plants can’t be an afterthought.
This is because the wrong plant will demand your time and attention (or you risk wilting and dying plants). At the same time, you don’t just want to pick the toughest plants because your poolside should look vibrant and be an expression of your style.
So, what are the best plants for the Melbourne client?
Whether you have a small plunge pool or a spacious backyard oasis, we’ll answer that question for you right now.
These 10 plants have been carefully selected for their ability to withstand Melbourne’s climate while still adding visual appeal through your glass fencing to ensure your pool area remains a lush and inviting retreat throughout the year.
#1 – Agapanthus (Agapanthus praecox)
Agapanthus, commonly known as Lily of the Nile, is a versatile and hardy plant perfect for Melbourne’s climate. It features attractive, strap-like leaves and beautiful clusters of blue or white flowers.
Agapanthus is well-suited for poolside planting due to its low maintenance requirements. It thrives in full sun to part shade and prefers well-drained soil. Once established, it’s drought-tolerant, making it ideal for Melbourne’s hot summers. To keep your Agapanthus looking its best, remove spent flower stalks and divide clumps every few years to maintain vigour.
#2 – Frangipani (Plumeria spp.)
Frangipani trees are renowned for their tropical beauty and intoxicating fragrance. Their waxy, multi-petaled flowers come in various colours, including shades of pink, yellow, and white. These trees thrive in Melbourne’s climate, but they do require protection from frost.
Plant them in a sunny spot with well-draining soil. Frangipani trees are relatively low-maintenance, but they benefit from occasional pruning to remove dead or crowded branches. They are also drought-tolerant once established, so be mindful not to overwater.
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#3 – Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae)
Bird of Paradise plants are known for their striking, bird-like flowers and large, banana-like leaves. These exotic beauties thrive in Melbourne’s warm climate and can add a touch of the tropics to your poolside landscape.
Plant them in full sun to part shade in well-draining soil. While they can tolerate drought, regular watering will promote better growth and flowering. Prune dead or damaged leaves to maintain their elegant appearance.
#4 – Lavender (Lavandula spp.)
Lavender is a classic choice for poolside planting, thanks to its fragrant blooms and lovely grey-green foliage. It’s a sun-loving plant that does well in Melbourne’s climate.
Lavender prefers well-draining soil and doesn’t require excessive watering. To encourage bushier growth and more flowers, prune the spent blooms and trim back the plants in early spring.
#5 – Kangaroo Paw (Anigozanthos spp.)
Kangaroo Paw plants are native to Australia and are well-suited for Melbourne’s climate. Their unique, tubular flowers come in a range of vibrant colours, including red, orange, and yellow.
Plant them in a sunny location with well-draining soil. Kangaroo Paw plants prefer regular watering, especially during the growing season, but make sure the soil doesn’t become waterlogged. Deadhead spent flowers to encourage continuous blooming and trim back the plant after flowering.
#6 – Succulents
Succulents are a fantastic choice for low-maintenance poolside landscaping in Melbourne. These water-wise plants come in various shapes, sizes, and colours, allowing you to get creative with your arrangements.
Succulents thrive in full sun and well-draining soil. When planting succulents, ensure that the soil is slightly gritty to aid in drainage. These plants are highly drought-tolerant and require minimal watering. Overwatering is a common mistake, so allow the soil to dry out between waterings.
#7 – Bamboo (Bambusoideae)
Bamboo is a versatile plant that can serve as a natural screen or privacy barrier around your pool area. It grows quickly and provides welcome shade during Melbourne’s scorching summers.
Plant bamboo in a location with partial to full sun and well-draining soil. Bamboo does require regular watering to establish, but once established, it is relatively low-maintenance. Be aware that some bamboo species can be invasive, so consider planting clumping bamboo varieties that won’t spread aggressively.
#8 – Agave (Agave spp.)
Agave plants are known for their striking, architectural appearance. Their rosette-shaped leaves and spiky edges add a touch of drama to your poolside landscape.
These plants are incredibly drought-tolerant and thrive in full sun and well-draining soil. Once established, agaves require minimal maintenance. However, be cautious when handling them due to their sharp spines
#9 – Ferns
Ferns thrive in the shade and can add a lush, tropical feel to your pool area. Maidenhair ferns and Boston ferns are popular choices that do well in Melbourne’s climate.
#10 – Citrus Trees (Citrus spp.)
If you’re looking for both beauty and function, consider planting citrus trees like lemon, lime, or mandarin. These fruit-bearing trees provide delicious treats while adding a fresh scent and vibrant foliage to your poolside oasis.
Few tips to ensure your outdoor space flourishes
Now that you have a list of some of the best plants for your poolside landscaping in Melbourne, here are a few tips to ensure your outdoor space flourishes:
- Choose the Right Location: Consider the sun and shade patterns around your pool area when deciding where to plant each type of vegetation. Some plants thrive in full sun, while others prefer partial or full shade.
- Proper Irrigation: Melbourne’s summers can be hot, so it’s essential to establish a watering schedule that keeps your plants hydrated without overwatering them.
- Mulch: Applying mulch around your plants helps retain moisture, reduce weeds, and maintain a more consistent soil temperature.
- Regular Pruning and Maintenance: Keep your poolside plants looking their best by regularly pruning and removing dead or diseased foliage.
- Fertilisation: Depending on the type of plants you choose, they may benefit from occasional fertilisation. Be sure to use the appropriate fertiliser for each plant species.
Incorporating these plants into your poolside landscape will not only enhance the visual appeal of your outdoor space but also create a more inviting and comfortable environment for you, your family, and your guests.
With a thoughtful selection of plants and proper care, your poolside oasis can become a serene retreat where you can relax and enjoy the beauty of Melbourne’s outdoor living to the fullest.
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Transform Your Poolside into a Verdant Paradise: With the right blend of low-maintenance and visually stunning plants, your Melbourne pool area can become a breathtaking oasis of tranquillity and style.
Remember, the key to a flourishing poolside garden is choosing plants that not only endure Melbourne’s unique climate but also reflect your aesthetic.
Embrace these recommendations, nurture them with care, and watch as your poolside transforms into a vibrant, inviting haven that elevates your outdoor living experience to new heights.
Dive into the lush life, where every splash is accompanied by a backdrop of nature’s finest! Dive into a Stunning Summer with SN Fencing! Call us at 0419 501 557 or Request Your Free Quote Today for Flawless Fencing Solutions!
