As a Brisbane landscaper undertaking all facets of landscape design and construction we are regularly called upon to design a landscape unique to our customers requirements.

A recent landscape paving project in Brisbane’s outer suburbs is an example of an unique backyard landscape solution. Our clients property had been built with a sunken floor in the garage, minimizing driveway slope. The situation had created an area along side the property that had varying ground levels to consider in the landscape design.

During our initial landscape consultation / quote, our qualified structural landscapers and horticulturist focus on our customers requirements. In this case our clients landscape requirements were for a utility area (washing line), a paved sitting area to utilize an unused area, drainage to solve water problems and an access path or paving around property.

Our landscape design for this project  incorporated three levels. While this accounted for the unusual levels of this site, it also created an aesthetic landscape feature with three defined areas . Landscape areas included steppers to provide  access to clothes line. Retaining edges were used to step up to a solid paved sitting area. A further retaining edge was used to step up to a feature paved transit area . A creative landscape design using retaining edges to resolve uneven surfaces and to define landscape areas.

Drainage problems were identified to be caused by poor levels of existing surface drains, poor location of surface drains, an air conditioning unit draining on ground, and an agg drain from rear of an existing retainer wall. Our landscape drainage solution included relocating drains (a laser level used to determine appropriate locations), correcting levels of surface drain, connecting air conditioner overflow to storm water, and connecting agg drain to storm water.

Large format 400mm Pavers works were selected for this project. Pavers were laid on a combination of road base / sand footings and concrete footings. Sub surface drainage was added under paved sitting area. White decorative gravel was used to infill paver areas. A laser level was used to ascertain accurate levels for both paving and drainage. We would consider this imperative tool to accurately complete such a landscape project.

This landscape project resolved drainage issue and created an aesthetic landscape area accommodating our clients requirements. Problem surface levels were used in a innovative way creating a feature to the area.

For more information on our landscape services and project sample visit us at www.greenscenegardenscope.com.au

Greenscene Gardenscope specialize in landscaping, irrigation and horticulture servicing Brisbane to the Sunshine Coast

www.greenscenegardenscope.com.au create landscape transformations including horticulture, structural landscapes and irrigation.

Greenscene Gardenscope utilizes Brisbane sub tropical climate creating unique landscape garden settings. Garden paths meandering through tropical gardens, boardwalk decking passing over dry landscaped riverbeds, formal lighting to complement your garden or a contemporary design for that modern look. Greenscene gardenscope specialize in complete landscape design, concept to completion.

Site conditions and preparation are imperative in garden design. Soil condition, drainage, climate, light and irrigation are essential factors that should influence actual plant selections and site preparation. Brisbane’s climate allows us to use a diverse range of plant species. Following is an insight into some of the species considered in our designs.

Tropical gardens with low maintenance year round colour are ideal back yard gardens for those who like to bring colour to their gardens without high maintenance. Deep reds and purples of the cordyline, multi colours of the crotons, small clumping palms for screening, the unique structures of dracenas. These are popular selections for mid story plant selections. Various understory plantings such as liriope stripey whites, xanadu, liriope evergreen giant, stralizea (bird of paradise), bromeliads are examples of understory tropical plantings.

Formal gardens commonly involve hedges or shaped plants and are therefore considered higher maintenance. Plants commonly used in Brisbane for hedging and shaping are murrayas, various species of syzygiums (lilly pilly) and acmeneas, austramyrtus blushing beauty, gardenias, buxus. Other species less commonly used now include duranta gold and alternanthera. These were often used as a two stage hedge for there colour contrast (purple & yellow)

Contemporary designs commonly incorporate a more structured or feature plants. Selections include cordyline red sensation for it strapey foliage, yuccas, agave’s and dracenas for there unique structure . Australian native grass trees, pandanus (particularly coastal) and various grasses are also common selections. Palms such as red latains, bismarkias, ponytail, dwarf dates and canary island date work well as  a bold statement and feature.

Native gardens may include various grevilleas, callistemons and  banksia,(for bird attracting & colour). Grasses such as lomandras and dianellas  are extremely tolerant of climate changes, dietes are popular in various forms for there flower. Many planting used by council and revegetation groups are now being  included in the urban landscape design. Lophostemons, eleocarpus, bunkinghamia, waterhousia, cupaniopsis, harpulia, schotia, xanthostemons are used extensively as shade trees. Native cycads like leprozamia, macrozamia give a dramatic effect to a native setting amongst xanthorea grass trees and other native shrubs.

Coastal plantings-Salt hardy planting of westringia, myoporum, coconut palms, pandanus, and new varieties of lomandra and dietes show tolerance  in coastal areas on the sunshine coast and gold coast where they are exposed to the prevailing winds and adverse conditions.

Greenscene Gardenscope specialize in all aspects of landscape design and construction. Our landscape service includes Surface and sub surface landscape preparation, garden design, retaining walls, paving, drainage, garden lighting, timber screens, decking and more. A full profile of our works, services and licenses is available at www.greenscenegardenscope.com.au

Greenscene Gardenscope services Brisbane to the Sunshine Coast.

www.greenscenegardenscope.com.au for a portfolio of our retaining wall and landscape projects.

Retaining wall are a very common requirement for most home owners. Retainers can be a reasonable expense, so maximizing the life span of your investment is critical. On some sites it can be difficult to get reasonable access to remove deteriorated retaining walls, hence the importance of correctly selecting and constructing a durable retaining wall.

Retaining wall can be constructed using a range of different products. H4 treated timber sleeper walls and block walls are both popular selections.In most areas of south east Queensland walls can be constructed without council approval providing they do not exceed 1 meter in height.
Block walls being a concrete product have a longer service life (providing they are correctly installed). Blocks are available in several styles and finishes. one of the most common is link wall blocks. These are often selected above timber for there service life and there price efficiency verse other concrete block products. Many suppliers suggest a minimum requirement of a compacted road base / crusher dust base.  A solid concrete footing is our recommendation.

Timber or sleeper walls should always use h4 treated timber designed for inground installation. Timbers suitable for retaining walls are usually hardwood or pine h4 treated sleepers in 50mm or 75mm depth (timber thickness). Timber selection and design of retaining walls should always be based on individual site requirements.

Consideration for back fill and drainage should never be over looked. Generally a minimum of agg drainage, socked preferably to prevent sediment entering and/or blocking drain and 200mm of drainage gravel between wall and soil being retained is required.  Any wall will only be as good as its foundations and drainage.

Greenscene Gardenscope construct durable retaining walls from a wide range of products. For a profile of our work and information on the range of landscaping services we offer visit us at www.greenscenegardenscope.com.au

See our full profile www.greenscenegardenscope.com.au for work samples, ideas and information about our service, licences and qualifications.

Are you seeking a reputable Brisbane landscaper? whether it be for your new home, landscape renovation or an improvement such as drainage, paving or retaining walls, Greenscene Gardenscope has the expertise to help.

Greenscene Gardenscope offer a full range of landscaping and irrigation services from Brisbane north to the Sunshine Coast. Our Landscape and Irrigation web site offers a full range of work examples, information about our services, licences and qualifications. Please take the time peruse our site and consider what we have to offer.

North Lakes Murrumba Downs has seen landscapers Greenscene Gardenscope www.greenscenegardenscope.com.au design and create a range of landscapes across this ever growing Brisbane suburb.

One of our most recent projects was to design and install an efficient automated irrigation system to maintain our clients landscape. The sprinkler system was to water all lawn and garden areas. Our clients being keen gardeners had numerous gardens throughout the property with varying water requirements. Garden areas included roses, annuals, perennials, established syzygium hedges (lilly pilly), cordylines, liriope, dietes and various other plants.

The landscape was divided into watering zones controlled by an automated hunter irrigation control unit. These zones were designed based on the individual gardens water requirements and included appropriated emitting devices. Drippers were used for roses, micro sprayers for annuals and perennials, and mini sprinklers for dense gardens. Lawns were dived into front and rear zones with mp rotors in pop up hunter sprinkler housings selected for these areas for there water efficiency & their slow application rate which ensures water penetrates surface without run off.

The system was fitted with a rain sensor ensuring automatic suspension of sprinkler operations in wet weather and was also connected through a rain water tank with automatic mains water top up when required.

This was an insight into one of the many Landscape services our qualified landscapers have provided in North Lakes Murrumba Downs. Greenscene Gardenscope has transformed the landscapes of many new and existing homes across Brisbane. Landscape designs include heritage landscapes, tropical landscapes, contemporary landscapes, even arid style landscapes. Our expert landscape services includes both soft and structural landscapes including: gardens, lawns, retaining walls, irrigation, lighting systems, privacy screens, paving, water features, drainage, rain water tanks and more.

For a full profile of our works and further information visit us at www.greenscenegardenscope.com.au

specialists in landscapes and irrigation from Brisbane to the Sunshine Coast.

Backyard Landscaping  at Mc Dowell, Brisbane

This job involed a whole facet of quality landscape construction with a diverse range of knowledge and skill.  As seen in the landscape plan and photos the job required the supply and construction of block retaining walls, paving, drainage and automatic irrigation connected to rain water tanks under water efficient guidelines, feature walls with slate stack and timber screens, timber deck extending from a tiled outdoor area out to a grass entertaining area. Carefully selected plantings of clumping bamboos , liriopes, nandinas,cordylines, new Zealand flax, Japanese blood grass, lomandra, pennasetum, dianella silver streak,  baby panda grass , mondo grass and zoysia grass, no mow grass and feature plantings of native grass trees and pandanus trees gave the landscape a distinctive elegant touch. At night the yard was transformed to a entertaining area with the use of suttle low voltage garden lighting. Uplights ,deck lights and spotlights were used to highlight feature areas and walkways thru paver area. Light sensitive sunset switches for garden lights with a timer ensured lighting came on at dusk and would turn off at dawn or were programmable to allow efficient use of lighting. The use of hard wearing  sir walter buffalo turf was chosen to cope with constant traffic of kids and two little very active dogs. Earthy neutral colours where used on the walls and pavers and paver edges. Drainage was a very important inclusion in the job to cope with the extensive amounts of water which will channel into to the rear of the property from the the neighbours above  them on the hill. The use of ag drains as well as rigid pipes and drainage pits help the yard drain quickly after heavy down pours, also behind all the retaining walls to reduce water/ moisture build up behind walls. The use of clumping bamboos where chosen for there slender tall nature to give maxium privacy from the two storey houses behind. With the use of four bamboos , tiger grass, timor black bamboo , grey ghost and budha belly bamboo gave different elements of texture, shades of colour and height requirements. Feature screens where built from h4 treated hardwood and steel to form a solid frame to hold the dressed stained kwila timber slates and slate stack tiles attached on firm sealed  blue board formwork. The floating timber deck  rests on concrete footings and treated timbers with additional drainage place under deck to avoid moisture. This job has inspired jobs we have recently completed at mango hill, north lakes and ascot /clayfield . Check out some more of our work on our website www.greenscenegardenscope.com.au

landscaping mcdowell Brisbane

Specialists in Landscapes and Irrigation www.greenscenegardenscope.com.au servicing Brisbane to the Sunshine Coast.

We were called upon by our client seeking a reputable landscaper servicing Redcliffe. Our client was nearing completion of an extensive renovation project and was now  looking to complete a landscape transformation. Our clients requirements were for an open area, children’s play ground, additional car parking and most importantly a low maintenance landscape, based on a moderate budget where further improvements may be added later.

The existing landscape was overgrown and  littered in builders waste. Existing concrete slabs, waste soils and poor drainage levels falling towards the property were to be dealt with.

Our landscape preparation include bulk soil waste removal, ascertaining appropriate landscape levels, removing concrete waste and clearing existing tree stumps that were found during our landscape excavation / preparation works.

The scope of our landscape work was to include a paved garden border around the property line. A soft fall children”s play area, large turf lawn, additional car parking and automated drip irrigation for garden areas. While in this instance we were to create garden borders, our works didn’t include garden plants. Our clients intention was to use a form of non clumping bamboo for privacy / screening.

Our irrigation system was designed  with our clients plans and for the free draining sandy loam soil found on this site. Certified soft fall was selected for cubby house / playground area. Green couch was selected for its winter colour / lower light requirement and cost effectiveness for large areas. Soils were imported for turf underlay with a fertilizer and water crystal mix added to soil. Additional car park area / side access path were completed in a decorative gravel and were edged with paved borders.

The area was completed as scheduled. Our client was extremely satisfied with the landscape transform from concept to completion.

Over the  last 6 months Greenscene Gardenscope Landscapes and Irrigation  have been busy designing and creating a range of landscape solutions from Brisbane city to the Sunshine Coast. Our work has been a balance of both landscaping for the private, commercial and government sectors.

Industrial landscape work has been significant with landscaping required in new industrial areas of Narangba , Caboolture and Brendale. We also have seen demand for renovation landscapes in established industrial areas of Clontarf, Geebung and Newstead as company’s lift their presentation standards. Our Industrial and commercial landscape has included landscape and irrigation works for factory’s, shop fronts, units and schools. A recent government project saw us completely remodel a tired outdoor lunch area to create a fresh,contemporary recreation area. Landscape works included a combination of  a paved area covered by a shade sail, lawns, gardens with paved edges and paved stepper path meandering through the lawn area. See our web site ‘walk through one of our jobs’ for details of this project.

Residential landscapes are definitely in demand as Brisbane’s renovating boom continues. Landscaping renovations in areas such as  Sandgate, Redcliffe, Bridgeman Downs, Ascot, Hamilton and most other areas of the Brisbane’s  inner northern suburbs combining with landscapes for new homes in areas such as Warner, North lakes, Narangba, Pacific harbour Bribie Island, Sippy Downs and Caloundra has certainly seen us doing some miles.  Our jobs have included a soft fall children’s play area, paved alfresco / patio settings, timber and block retaining walls , designer gardens, drainage, turfing, timber privacy screens, water features, garden lighting, vegie gardens and more.

Thankfully over summer Brisbane’s gardens and landscapes had good rain, and more importantly so did Brisbane’s dams. With near full capacity, irrigation systems can now be used but must meet ‘QLD Water Commission’s Efficient Irrigation System Guidelines.’ Irrigation products now available are more efficient than ever, and along with the right balance of structural or hard landscapes, well selected plants / lawns and good preparation everyone can have that beautiful landscape that makes a house a home.

Keep an eye out for a detailed review of recent projects, coming soon….

Greenscene Gardenscope Landscapes and Irrigation is a combined operation of Gardenscope Landscaping and Instant Greenscene Landscapes and Irrigation joining forces in 2005 to offer a diverse range of industry specialists rarely found in smaller landscape operations.

Our team offers a full range of horticulture, landscaping and irrigation services with owner operators Luke Sullivan and Peter McGrath having a combined experience of more than 30 years. With our extensive industry  experience, we have the knowledge and confidence to deliver creative and innovative landscapes.

At Greenscene Gardenscope we strive to maintain the highest standards from concept through to completion. Bringing new landscape ideas and concepts to life.

Our Qualifications:

Structural Landscapers- We are fully licensed and qualified structural landscapers, able to undertake all facets of landscape design and construction.

Irrigation- Licensed irrigation plumber with broad knowledge of irrigation systems, from sub surface drip irrigation to commercial requirements, using both mains or tank water connections (RPI 21480 QLD plumbers and drainers board).

Horticulturists- Our qualified horticulturist (diploma) has extensive knowledge and experience with a large variety of plant stock. Plants can be supplied from small tube stock right through to the largest available exground trees. Soil types and environmental conditions play a large part in the landscape layout and design along with plant selection ( NAT SPEC Quality ). Guying, rigging, transportation and stabilisation of large exground tree stock and plant life. Erosion and revegetation plantings.

Trained people in Agricultural Chemical Distribution Certificates and CHEM CERT for applications of herbicides, insecticides and fungicides to plant life and weeds on site as well as extensive IPM ( integrated pest management) knowledge for a more comprehensive and natural / safer  beneficial insect treatments for schools, day care centres and public areas.

Business Management- Certificate in Business Management for the Construction industry.

QLD blue cards- General safety induction for the construction industry.

Building Services Authority License no.1160354 Irrigation and Structural Landscaping (Trade)

Q Build vendor no. 847426

A range of our Landscape Design Solutions:

At Greenscene Gardenscope Landscapes and Irrigation we pride ourselves on professionalism. Our Team consists of structural landscapers, a qualified horticulturist and licensed irrigation plumbers, all of whom hold blue cards for WHS. Together we focus on sustainable landscape solutions. We create aesthetic landscapes that suit your lifestyle and our changing environment.

IRRIGATION / TANKS

Our irrigation systems are designed with sustainability in mind. These systems comply with QLD Water Commissions ‘efficient irrigation system guidelines’. Our automated systems can be either tank, main or dual water connections. Products range from sub-surface irrigation to rotational impact sprinklers. Rain and moisture sensors can be fitted to these units to maximise efficiency.

We also cater for irrigation service (recommended annually), repairs and upgrades. All new and existing irrigation or sprinkler systems must comply with QWC efficient irrigation guidelines. Most existing systems can be modified or upgraded to comply with QWC latest guidelines. During an irrigation service a detailed report and estimated costing (if required) will be completed regarding systems compliancy with QWC efficient irrigation system guidelines.

DRAINAGE

We offer surface and sub-surface drainage solutions. These are designed individually for specific site requirements. Drainage may include drainage pits, drainage channels and AG drains. Drainage solutions should always be considered during landscape construction and site preparation. Connecting stormwater pits to existing house stormwater should always be avoided as it can impead water flow from house.

LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE

Our professional team of structural landscapers, horticulturists and irrigation plumbers currently offer a one stop shop for site maintenance to the commercial, industrial and government sectors(Q Build vendor no.847426). Our landscape maintenance service can include weekly, fortnightly or monthly maintenance programs. Scheduled site maintenance can include lawn mowing and edges, hedge trimming, clearing of litter, blowing down site of leaf litter, weed control, tree lopping, pruning. Our professional team can also be engaged to include landscape upgrades, irrigation repairs and services, and most general handyman works or repairs that is required on your site.

TIMBER STRUCTURES / SCREENS

We cater for a vast range of timber structures, including batten privacy and feature screens, boardwalk style decking and cubby or play houses. All timber works are built to the highest structural standards. Great care is taken with select timbers to ensure the best result. Generally kwila is used on screens and decks for its aesthetic finish and cedar or losp pine is used for children’s play houses for safety. Galvanised or stainless steel fixings are used to ensure the longevity of the structure. A range of timber oils and stains are used to complete the project.

RETAINING WALLS

Retainers are available as h4 treated sleeper timber retaining walls or various styles of block and link block retaining walls. Careful consideration for structural footings, along with appropriate drainage materials and backfilling for retaining walls, ensures long term durability. Our services are for retaining walls up to 1 metre in height, above this engineer reports and council approvals are required.

WATER FEATURES / GARDEN LIGHTING

We offer unique designer water features and structures or installation of prefabricated designs. There is an array of product options available to complement your landscape, including automated feature lighting. Lighting is available for gardens, ponds, water features and structures. Garden lighting includes mini spot lights for features, up lights to border paths and decks, auto light sensor that can operate dusk to dawn or dusk for 2-4-8 hours. Our lighting systems are low voltage and with the introduction of LED options are more energy efficient than ever.

GARDENS / PLANTS

Our qualified horticulturists have access to a vast range of plant stock from tubes to ex ground trees. With more than 20 years experience we have the knowledge to guide you through the process of plant selection. This will ensuring a garden setting that is unique to your lifestyle and requirements. Low maintenance, foliage colour, privacy and structurally featured plants for presentation are common desires. This along with site factors and surrounding setting will be considered during design.

PAVING

All our pavers are laid onto structurally prepared surfaces for long term durability. Pavers are available in a large range of colours, styles and textures. Larger pavers are commonly used in modern contemporary designs. Both as solid paving in alfresco settings and as stepper with decorative gravel surrounds. Paved areas commonly use contrasting colours and by using pavers as garden borders and edges can ‘tie an area together.’

Under Permanent Water Conservation Measures, you can water your garden and lawn with an efficient hose, sprinkler, or irrigation system – but not from 10am to 4pm or on Mondays.

Gardening tips:

• ensure soil is dry enough to warrant watering (so no need to water after rainfall)
• stop water from falling on buildings or hard surfaces
• don’t water in windy conditions
• mulch gardens to reduce evaporation
• calculate garden water needs
• don’t allow water to pond, pool or run off.

More information and fact sheets

• Efficient Irrigation Guidelines (PDF, 373KB)
• Your Guide to Efficient Garden Irrigation (PDF, 395KB)
• Improving sustainable housing in Queensland
• Queensland Plumbing and Wastewater Code