Now that your long-awaited pool is installed, it’s time to bring your vision for the space to life. Whether you envision a green and lush resort-style setting or a tropical oasis, the landscaping around your pool plays a crucial role in tying everything together. Here are some pool landscaping ideas that can help you achieve the outdoor sanctuary you’ve been dreaming about.
Pool Landscaping Plants
Plants to Avoid in Pool Landscaping
While plants can enhance the look and feel of your outdoor pool space, it's important to first identify which plants to exclude. Deciduous trees that shed leaves, plants that bear fruit, or those that drop seeds or cones can create unnecessary debris. Additionally, avoid plants that attract bees or have thorns. Instead, opt for evergreens that do not shed many leaves and plants that feature long-lasting flower displays.
Best Plants for Pool Landscaping
Conduct research to discover the best trees, shrubs, and ornamental plants suitable for your growing zone. Think about the overall landscaping and choose plants that will blend seamlessly. Prioritize low-maintenance varieties that provide safety and privacy. Consider the following popular pool landscaping ideas:
- Succulents: Evergreen, hardy, and sculptural, making them a popular choice.
- Ornamental grasses: Varieties like yellow foxtail and fountain grass are visually appealing and low-maintenance options that can also offer some privacy.
- Vines: Plants like passionflower and Carolina jasmine can be trained to climb over trellises, arbors, and pergolas, adding vertical interest.
- Tropical plants: Species such as palms and hibiscus can provide an exotic look, depending on your climate.
Potted Plants and Containers
Potted plants are perfect for poolside landscaping. Seasonal annuals add color without occupying much space. The containers themselves can contribute to the overall aesthetic and match your desired decorating theme.
Pool Landscaping Grass
Grass is an excellent way to fill in empty spaces around the pool. It provides texture and a soft surface for children and sunbathers alike. Select a low-maintenance grass type that is well-suited for your climate.
Adding Privacy to the Pool Area
Utilizing landscaping ideas can help create privacy around your pool. Fencing adds both privacy and safety, keeping out prying eyes as well as children or pets when the pool is not in use. Options like wood perimeter fencing and ornamental fencing are popular choices.
Plants can also serve as a living fence, enhancing privacy while adding beauty. Tall grasses, shrubs, and evergreen trees can create a natural barrier. Other effective options include bamboo and giant reed for privacy. Additionally, vines can be trained to grow through chain-link fencing to enhance seclusion.
Other Pool Landscaping Ideas
Lighting
Incorporate landscape lighting to enhance both the safety and ambiance of your pool area. Options include solar-powered garden lights and floodlights. Solar stake lights can line walkways, adding charm and improving safety, while point floodlights can beautifully illuminate trees, fountains, or other focal points.
Tiki torches are another option that can provide light while contributing to a tropical-themed decor.
Boulders, Stones, and Pebbles
Boulders, stones, and pebbles can create a natural look around your pool area. However, be cautious with very small pebbles near the pool, as they can wash into the water, causing filtration and cleaning issues.
Natural river rocks or moss boulders can serve to outline flower beds or create decorative features such as rock waterfalls or rugged diving platforms.
Now that you’re filled with creative pool landscaping ideas, it’s time to make a plan. Digging and selecting the right plants can be challenging, so consider letting the experts help. Contact Lawn & Landcare in the Dallas area to help turn your dreams into reality.
Explore some of our pool landscaping installation and clean-up projects featured in our portfolio.
