Sean Lynch – Managing Director of Poolfab Pool + Landscape Creations on the Sunshine Coast, shares innovative ways to incorporate greenery into your pool surrounds.
It does take time and hard work, but keeping the exterior of our properties looking great is just as important as taking care of the inside. Sean Lynch says backyards shouldn’t have to suffer at the hands of those people lacking a green thumb, as there are plenty of ways to improve your space.
Hiring a landscaper to help you design your garden is a great way to organise your outdoor space for ease of use and added enjoyment.
“There’s no better way to guarantee a great result than with an experienced professional who will save you time and money in the long run,” Sean says.
“One of the benefits of hiring a landscaper to design your backyard is their extensive plant knowledge. A quality landscaper will be able to select the right plants for your needs, whether you’re after enhanced visual appeal, optimal privacy, or reduced maintenance.”
MAKING IT MANAGEABLE
“As our lives get busier we want to spend less time maintaining our outdoor spaces and more time enjoying them,” Sean says.
“Often, selecting plants that require little upkeep is the best way to accommodate your lifestyle. A great time-saving solution for outdoor areas with limited space is a green wall. These vertical style gardens work well in tight spaces and allow greater flexibility in planting styles.
“Their ability to purify the air and regulate humidity makes them a great addition to any environment. For a green wall full of foliage, cascading plants such as various types of ferns, ivy, dichondra and wattle will do a great job of filling out the space. For flowering options, try a selection of petunias, sweet alyssum, begonias and geraniums. For something that’s even easier to maintain, opt for a succulent garden. Succulents are a great choice because they are resilient.”
LIVING LUSH
A lovely garden can make all the difference when it comes to enjoying an outdoor space. A garden should always reflect the owner’s personality and the local environment. A landscaper will take these factors into consideration.
“My approach is always dependent on the style of the project, be it tropical, native or resort-inspired,” Sean says.
“While the Queensland climate remains relatively consistent throughout the year, both the heat and humidity can take a toll on your garden.
“Choosing the right plants is key to the success of your outdoor space.
“I always try to use a mix of water-wise plants with year-round colour and foliage so that space is always appealing, regardless of the season or weather conditions.
“A combination of low-level ground covers, middle-height feature plants and taller varieties will give depth and height to the space.”
Sean says popular plant choices include tropical species such as gingers, agave and birds-of-paradise.
“Their deep-green leaves and striking flowers are reminiscent of the traditional Queensland style.
“However, selecting and planting your shrubs is pointless without the necessary resources in place to maintain their beauty.
“It’s also important to carefully select materials like mulch and edging to retain water, reduce weeds and frame the space you have created.”
GOING GREEN
You may not realise it, but selecting the right landscaper is key to achieving an eco-friendly outdoor space.
“Our ethos is to offer eco-smart packages from concept to completion,” Sean says.
“We aim to create water-wise and energy-efficient spaces with reduced chemical use throughout the home.”
“Popular eco-friendly practices include composting, recycling, and attracting native wildlife to your backyard. By implementing these strategies in your outdoor area, it will be easier to maintain a green garden and a greener lifestyle.
“When it comes to plant selection, opt for evergreen varieties such as agave, yukkas, pandanus, cycads and gingers, which require minimal water, chemicals and energy to survive.
“If we can create beautiful outdoor spaces that require less upkeep, water, energy and chemicals, it’s beneficial for the client, their family and the environment.”
