Step-by-Step Guide to Covering Your Pool
Swimming pools are a great source of relaxation and fun, especially during warmer months. But when the season ends or
A beautiful swimming pool becomes even more inviting when surrounded by lush greenery. Whether you’re aiming for a tropical paradise or a neat, low-maintenance landscape, choosing the right plants to plant around a swimming pool is essential. These selections not only enhance aesthetics but also help with privacy, cooling, and even reducing pool debris.
Let’s explore the best good plants and pool-friendly trees to transform your pool area into a refreshing, vibrant oasis.
Before diving into the plant list, it’s important to understand why landscaping plays a key role in pool design:
1. Privacy & Shade: Strategic planting can provide natural shade and seclusion from neighbors.
2. Cooling Effect: Trees and shrubs help cool the surrounding air, making your poolside more comfortable.
3. Aesthetic Appeal: The right combination of foliage adds character and luxury to any backyard.
4. Functional Boundaries: Plants act as natural borders, guiding foot traffic and defining areas.
However, not every shrub, tree, or flower is suitable. Some plants shed too many leaves, attract insects, or have aggressive roots that can damage pool structures.
If you’re after a bold, tropical statement, the Bird of Paradise is an ideal choice. Its unique orange and blue blooms mimic an exotic bird in flight, and its large green leaves offer a strong visual impact without shedding excessively.
A) Maintenance: Low
B) Water Needs: Moderate
C) Bonus: Doesn’t drop many leaves, making pool cleaning easier.
For borders and edging near the pool deck, Liriope is a favorite. This grass-like perennial provides a neat, tidy look and comes with small purple or white flowers in late summer.
A) Ideal For: Low-maintenance ground cover.
B) Why It Works: No invasive roots, minimal leaf litter.
For a modern, sculptural feel, Agave brings bold structure with low water needs. Its sharp, clean lines and resistance to harsh sunlight make it perfect for poolside settings.
A) Caution: Choose spineless varieties if kids frequently use the pool area.
B) Looks Best With: Desert-style or minimalist landscaping.
Soft, wispy, and non-invasive, Fountain Grass adds movement and texture to your pool surroundings. The plant’s feathery plumes and arching stems work beautifully against stone or tiled pool edges.
A) Pros: Drought-tolerant, low leaf drop.
B) Use It For: Softening hardscape edges.
Compact and clumping, Blue Fescue brings a pop of color with its icy blue foliage. It’s a great fit for modern gardens and doesn’t mind full sun.
A) Perfect For: Filling gaps between pavers or along the pool fence.
B) Bonus: Deer-resistant and non-toxic.
Known for its fragrant flowers and tropical look, Frangipani is one of the most beloved plants for swimming pool areas in warm climates. It thrives in full sun and offers just the right amount of shade.
A) Leaves: Moderate drop in colder months.
B) Roots: Non-invasive, making it safe for decking and tiles.
In temperate zones, Japanese Maple adds elegance with its finely cut leaves and vibrant seasonal color changes. Although deciduous, its leaf drop is minimal and manageable.
A) Best Feature: Can be pruned to suit smaller spaces.
B) Pool Style: Ideal for Zen or formal garden themes.
The Olive Tree, especially sterile cultivars that don’t produce messy fruits, is a classy, drought-resistant option. Its silver-green foliage looks striking against blue pool water.
A) Why It’s Great: Minimal leaf drop, elegant profile.
B) Needs: Well-drained soil and full sun.
For lush blooms and a vibrant touch, Hibiscus is a classic choice in many tropical pool settings. These shrubs offer large, colorful flowers from spring to fall.
A) Keep in Mind: Regular pruning helps maintain shape and reduce debris.
B) Tip: Choose hardy varieties that resist disease.
Bamboo is an excellent privacy screen and windbreak when planted around pools. Opt for clumping species like Bambusa textilis to avoid invasive roots.
A) Height Advantage: Grows tall quickly for instant coverage.
B) Maintenance: Occasional thinning.
While picking plants around pools, keep the following factors in mind:
1. Root Behavior: Avoid trees with aggressive root systems like Ficus or Willow that may crack pool decks or underground plumbing.
2. Debris and Leaf Drop: Plants like Jacaranda or Pine Trees are notorious for constant littering. Instead, choose evergreens or slow-shedding species.
3. Sun Exposure: Select species based on the sun/shade pattern in your backyard. Full-sun lovers may suffer in shaded corners, and vice versa.
4. Pest Resistance: Opt for varieties that don’t attract bees, wasps, or mosquitoes—essential for a safe and relaxing pool experience.
1. Mulch Smartly: Use stone or gravel mulch near the pool. Organic mulch can blow into the water.
2. Create Zones: Separate poolside relaxation areas with hedges or potted greenery.
3. Consider Pot Plants: Use planters for flexible styling and easy maintenance.
4. Use Drip Irrigation: Prevents overspray into the pool while keeping roots hydrated.
Selecting the right plants for around pools is about finding a balance between beauty, safety, and practicality. The best choices enhance your outdoor environment while making sure your maintenance remains hassle-free. Whether you’re after lush tropical vibes, Mediterranean minimalism, or serene Zen calmness, there’s a perfect plant for your poolside.
With the right choices and a bit of planning, your swimming pool area can be a year-round retreat surrounded by nature’s finest accents.
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Swimming pools are a great source of relaxation and fun, especially during warmer months. But when the season ends or
Owning a swimming pool is a luxury but, with ownership comes the responsibility of keeping clean, safe water. A clean