Natural pools: expert tips to get you started

Natural pools are a beautiful and sustainable way to bring water into the garden, creating a tranquil focal point that supports both people and wildlife. Using plants and natural filtration instead of chemicals, they blend seamlessly into the landscape, inviting birds, frogs and beneficial insects while offering a cool, chemical-free place to swim and relax.

Here our editor, Chloe Thompson, talks with Vivian Scarpari (known as Vivi) about how to approach creating a natural pool, based on her experience building her own in the leafy foothills of Melbourne’s Dandenong Ranges.

Why did you build a natural pool?

Back in 2020, while working as lead horticulturist with Ben Hutchinson Landscapes, Vivi was surrounded by inspiring water gardens.

“Ben specialises in ponds of all sizes,” she explains. “At the time Tony and I were considering a swimming pool, but a naturalistic style suited our landscape and the borrowed views of the ranges.”
Large rocks, a body of water that could be shared with local wildlife and a system free of chlorine or salt all appealed.

“I loved the idea of something that sat gently in the landscape and worked with nature rather than against it,” she says.

What if you are converting a pool?

Turning a chlorinated pool into a natural pond is possible but best handled by professionals.

“It’s a process – get expert advice before you begin,” Vivi advises.

What is your tip for starting out?

A container water garden is an easy option for renters or small spaces.

“Silicone the drainage hole of a big pot or find one with no drainage holes (at least 40–50cm wide), layer river gravel, larger rocks and small logs/sticks – some should sit above the water or rest against the sides of the pot, creating depth variation,” Vivi says.

She recommends adding to your pot aquatic plants suited to your local climatic conditions.

Simply plant them into smaller pots, top the potting mix with gravel (to keep it from floating away) and layer the smaller pots into your large pot, adding support rocks or upturned pots beneath if needed to adjust the depth of water they sit in.

If you can, add three different types of plants: a taller growing plant that sits well above the water; a low growing plant; and a surface floating plant. This selection will be appreciated by a range of wildlife and insects.

Finally, Vivi suggests “adding a little solar pump for movement.”

What about rules and permits?

In Victoria, ornamental ponds don’t usually require a pool fence or building permit. But, Vivi notes, “If you intend to use it for swimming, you’ll need a compliant pool fence and the right permits.” She recommends checking with your local council and state building authority for regulations and the permits required.

Please be aware that any structure containing water may pose a risk of drowning – even if a safety barrier is not legally required.

You’ll find a list of Vivi’s favourite water plants for big or small ponds, in our Early Summer 2025 issue. The cover shows sticky everlasting daisies on the edge of the pond she created.