Landscaping Ideas for Pool Areas

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Landscaping around a pool can enhance its beauty and create a relaxing oasis. Here are some tips to help you create a stunning poolside landscape:

1. Choose the right plants: Opt for low-maintenance plants that can withstand the pool’s chlorine and water splashes. Consider using evergreen shrubs, ornamental grasses, and flowering plants.

2. Create a focal point: Install a waterfall, a statue, or a fire pit to create a focal point that draws attention and adds visual interest.

3. Add privacy: Incorporate tall hedges, fences, or trellises to provide privacy and block unsightly views.

4. Install lighting: Illuminate the pool area with outdoor lighting to create a warm and inviting ambiance in the evening.

5. Incorporate seating areas: Include comfortable seating areas and lounge chairs for relaxation and entertaining.

Remember to maintain the landscape regularly by pruning, watering, and fertilizing the plants to keep your poolside area looking its best.


Enhancing the surroundings of a pool can create a lush and inviting atmosphere, making it more enjoyable to relax by the poolside. Before starting your landscaping project, it’s important to choose the right types of plants that will thrive in this environment.

Guidelines for Pool Landscaping

When adding vegetation around a pool, it is beneficial to incorporate some shade. This not only provides comfort for those sitting by the pool, but also creates attractive views. Trees can also serve as focal points in the overall design.

To add visual interest, consider using climbing vines and hanging plants around the pool area. This draws the eye upwards and creates a more impactful environment. Such landscaping can also transport you to a tropical paradise.

Privacy should also be a key consideration. Strategically placing plants that vine, climb, and are bushy can provide coverage for the pool area, creating a sense of privacy. If possible, position these plants between the pool and other areas of the yard to create a natural “pool room” that feels secluded.

Ideal Plants for Pool Landscaping

When choosing plants for your pool area, it is important to select ones that do not produce excessive leaf litter or have other bothersome habits, such as dripping sap. Opt for plants that thrive in full sun, as pool areas generally receive ample sunlight.

Adding some color to the poolside space can enhance its visual appeal. Flowers are a great choice for pool area landscaping, as long as they do not shed excessive blooms. Many ornamental grasses, trees, and shrubs also add beauty to the poolside garden. Additionally, consider plants that look stunning when illuminated by night lighting, such as palm trees.

Some recommended plant choices for landscaping around pools include bamboo, palm trees, and hedges, which can create a natural fence. Queen palm, southern live oak, golden euonymus, and various ornamental grasses like muhly grass are also suitable options. For those who appreciate succulents, bird of paradise and octopus agave are excellent choices.

Plants to Avoid Around Pools

It is best to avoid plants that consistently drop small leaves or debris as they can create problems for pool maintenance. These types of foliage can make the pool look untidy and clog up filters. Plants to avoid include acacia, azalea, bougainvillea, crape myrtle, honeysuckle, ash tree, evergreen elm, and mesquite.

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