We're building an in-ground pool. The garden bed between the fence and the pool coping will be 400mm wide, at the same level as the pool. We'd like a Mediterranean look - what plants would be suitable?

Government regulations state you must avoid any vegetation that children could climb on to get over the fence. Also, avoid plants that need frequent spraying and those with flowers or leaves that would fall into the pool - including hedges that need regular clipping. Assuming the bed is sunny, I'd suggest olive trees, planted two to three metres apart, to provide height and light screening. Clip them once a year to maintain a good shape. Bay trees (Laurus nobilis) could also be used. For a more contemporary look, substitute sculptural cordylines (Cordyline australis 'Sundance', 'Red Star' or 'Autumn') for the upright elements. Alternatively, you could cover the fence with a climber such as star jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides). Underneath and in front of any of these options, mass-plant with dwarf oleander, Agapanthus 'Snowball', Dianella 'Little Jess' or Euphorbia 'Silver Swan'. Or use a groundcover of Asian star jasmine (Trachelospermum asiaticum), which forms a dense mat that flowers sparely.