A pool can be the focal point of a backyard oasis, with the right landscaping. Planning your landscaping and preparing your yard for your new pool takes considerable thought. So, here are a few points you need to know about landscaping when installing your pool.
What Not to Plant
The wrong plants can create extra pool maintenance as will planting grass too close to the pool. For example, bougainvillea will shed tons of pretty pink flowers into your pool that can clog your pool’s jets and drains. You will want to avoid these kinds of plants around your pool. You'll also want to avoid plants that attract a lot of bees, such as honeysuckle.
Grass too close to a pool can also create problems. Not only will grass clippings fly into the pool, but the roots can eventually cause damage to both in-ground and above-ground pools. In fact, do not plant anything with invasive roots, such as oleander, around a pool.
Plants Appropriate for Around the Pool
If you want a tropical look and feel, stick with non-shedding poolside plants. Go with plants like canna lilies, bird of paradise flowers, and hibiscus plants. These are hardy plants that do not shed.
While lawn grass must be kept away from the pool, decorative grasses, such as feather reed grass, zebra grass, and mondo grass are very appropriate for around the pool.
In desert regions, succulents are a good choice. They can withstand heat and intense sunshine like cactus, but unlike cactus, they do not have dangerous thorns.
Landscaping Around Above-Ground Pools
While in-ground pools have a rim of cement decking, above-ground pools do not. That means, before you decide on any plants, you'll need to decide what to surround them with. Several inches of gravel or decorative rock around the pool is a popular option. However, before you lay down any rock, put down a layer of landscaping fabric to prevent weeds. The rock should extend two or three feet from the pool.
Not only does the decorative rock look attractive, but it also allows for evaporation. This keeps water from building up around and under the pool. Once you have your rock laid out, you can plant it around the perimeter of the gravel. You can place potted plants around the pool too. Potted plants also give you the option to change your landscaping seasonally.
When you’re planning the landscaping for your above-ground pool, talk to your installation company about which plants work best for your area and style of pool. They can give you specific advice for what will work well in your yard.
With some research into the best plants for your region, your pool's landscaping will not only create an oasis but will also be relatively low maintenance.
