Landscaping Around Pools: 5 Best Stylish Ideas 2025

 

Landscaping Around Pools is an artful balance between beauty, functionality, and ease of maintenance. Whether you’re looking to create a relaxing oasis or a lively gathering spot, the right poolside landscape transforms your backyard into a personal paradise. Consider these key elements:

• Ornamental Grasses: Like blue fescue and switchgrass that offer a lush, low-maintenance border.
• Pergolas for Shade: Provide a comforting spot for relaxation and conversation while keeping an eye on the water.
• Freeform Planting: Improve the natural feel with varied plant heights and flowering seasons.
• Living Fences: Ensure privacy while adding a welcoming, green touch.
• Color Coordination: Match plant hues with your home’s facade and pool area for a cohesive look.

I’m David Brabant, owner of Creative Edge Pools. With over thirty years in the swimming pool and landscaping industry, I’ve helped countless homeowners bring their dream outdoor spaces to life. My team and I specialize in crafting personalized, high-quality pool environments in Eastern Massachusetts and Southern New Hampshire.

Landscaping Around Pools

Creating an inviting landscaping around pools involves choosing plants and designs that are both beautiful and easy to maintain. Here’s how you can achieve a stunning poolside setting:

Low-Maintenance Plants

When selecting plants for your pool area, opt for varieties that are not demanding. Ornamental grasses such as blue fescue and tufted hair grass are perfect. They require minimal upkeep and add a touch of elegance. Their gentle swaying in the breeze creates a soothing ambiance.

For a pop of color, consider annuals. These flowers are available in almost any hue, allowing you to coordinate with your pool decor effortlessly. Plus, installing a drip irrigation system can keep them vibrant throughout the summer without much hassle.

Poolside Design

Designing your poolside area involves more than just plants. Freeform pool shapes can be complemented by informal planting accents. Scatter plants randomly to avoid a rigid look. This approach improves the unplanned aesthetic and makes the space feel more organic.

Pergolas are another excellent addition. They offer shade and create a cozy spot for relaxation. Place them close enough to the pool so that you can still engage with those swimming. Add some comfortable seating and outdoor lighting to complete the look.

Native Plants

Incorporating native plants into your pool landscaping is a smart choice. These plants are well-suited to the local climate and soil, making them easier to maintain. They also support local wildlife, adding an ecological benefit to your pool area.

By choosing native species, you can reduce the need for fertilizers and pesticides, contributing to a more sustainable environment.

Bringing It All Together

When planning your pool landscaping, remember to balance practicality with aesthetics. Group plants for impact, as this draws more attention and creates a lush, inviting atmosphere. Use the natural beauty of your environment to guide your choices, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different textures and colors.

Your pool area should be a reflection of your personal style, providing a beautiful yet functional space for relaxation and entertainment. With these tips, you can create a poolside paradise that requires minimal effort to maintain, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor oasis all season long.

Budget-Friendly Pool Landscaping Ideas

Changing your pool area doesn’t have to break the bank. With some clever choices, you can achieve a beautiful setting while keeping costs low.

Gravel Alternatives

Gravel is a popular choice for pool landscaping due to its affordability and low maintenance. However, there are other cost-effective options to consider:

• Mulch: Not only does it help retain moisture, but it also adds a natural look to your poolside. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and easy to apply.
• Recycled Materials: Old bricks or concrete pieces can be repurposed as stepping stones or decorative borders. This adds charm and reduces waste.
• Sand: For a beach-like vibe, consider using sand around your pool. It’s inexpensive and gives a relaxed, natural feel.

Drought-Tolerant Plants

Choosing drought-tolerant plants is a smart way to save on water bills and maintenance time. Some excellent options include:

• Succulents: These hardy plants require little water and come in various shapes and colors. They add a modern touch to your poolside.
• Lavender: Known for its fragrant blooms, lavender thrives in dry conditions and attracts pollinators.
• Agave: This striking plant adds a sculptural element to your landscaping and needs minimal care.

By selecting these plants, you can create a vibrant, eco-friendly pool area that withstands dry spells.

Bulk Plant Purchases

Buying plants in bulk can significantly reduce costs. Here’s how to make the most of bulk buying:

• Plan Ahead: Determine the types and quantities of plants you need before purchasing. This prevents overspending and ensures you have enough to complete your design.
• Local Nurseries: Check with local nurseries for discounts on bulk purchases. They may offer better deals than big-box stores.
• Community Plant Swaps: Participate in plant swaps to exchange surplus plants with neighbors. It’s a cost-effective way to diversify your garden.

By being strategic with your purchases, you can fill your pool area with lush greenery without stretching your budget.

With these budget-friendly ideas, you can improve your pool’s surroundings without compromising on style or quality. Next, we’ll explore creative features that can lift your poolside experience even further.

Creative Poolside Features

Enhancing your pool area with unique features can transform it into a stylish oasis. Let’s explore how shade incorporation, outdoor lighting, and vertical planting can lift your poolside experience.

Shade Incorporation

A poolside without shade is like a sundae without a cherry. Adding shade not only provides relief from the sun but also extends the usability of your outdoor space. Here are some ideas:

• Pergolas and Awnings: Install a pergola or awning for a permanent shade solution. They create a cozy nook for relaxation and can be adorned with climbing plants for added beauty.
• Umbrellas: Large umbrellas are versatile and can be moved around as needed. They’re perfect for creating temporary shade over seating areas or lounge chairs.
• Trees: Planting trees strategically around your pool can offer natural shade. Consider varieties like Japanese Maple or Crepe Myrtles, which add aesthetic value without overwhelming the space.

Outdoor Lighting

The right lighting can transform your pool area into a magical retreat after dark. Here’s how to illuminate your space creatively:

• Pathway Lights: Install ground lights along paths to guide guests safely around the pool. They add a touch of elegance and ensure visibility.
• Spotlights: Use spotlights to highlight architectural features or favorite trees. This creates focal points and adds depth to your nighttime landscape.
• Underwater Lights: Consider installing lights in the pool itself. They create a shimmering effect on the water, enhancing the ambiance for evening swims.

Vertical Planting

Maximize your space and add visual interest with vertical planting. This technique is perfect for small areas or when you want to make a bold statement:

• Living Walls: Install a living wall with a mix of succulents, ferns, and flowering plants. It’s a stunning backdrop for your pool and requires minimal ground space.
• Hanging Baskets: Use hanging baskets filled with colorful blooms to add layers of greenery above eye level. They’re easy to maintain and switch out seasonally.
• Trellises: Place trellises with climbing plants like wisteria or clematis. They provide privacy and a lush, green border around your pool area.

By incorporating these creative features, your poolside will not only be functional but also a visually appealing haven. Next, we’ll dig into common mistakes to avoid when landscaping around your pool.

Avoid Common Pool Landscaping Mistakes

When planning landscaping around pools, it’s crucial to steer clear of common pitfalls that can lead to maintenance headaches or safety issues. Here’s what to watch out for:

Prickly Plants

Avoid prickly plants like rose bushes, barberry, and bougainvillea near your pool area. While these plants can be visually appealing, they pose a risk of injury, especially to children running around with bare legs. Cactus plants, with their sharp points, are also best left out of poolside designs.

Invasive Roots

Trees with invasive root systems can wreak havoc on your pool’s structure and plumbing. Oaks, elms, and Ficus trees are notorious for their aggressive roots. These roots can damage pool walls, decks, and underground pipes. Before planting any tree, consult with a local nursery or landscape expert to ensure it’s safe for poolside planting.

Shedding Greenery

While greenery around your pool can create a lush oasis, be cautious of plants that shed excessively. For example, evergreen Italian cypress trees are beautiful but can lead to constant cleanup if planted near the pool. To minimize maintenance, choose plants that are known for low shedding. If you’re unsure, a quick call to your local nursery can help identify which plants are best suited for low-maintenance poolside landscaping.

By avoiding these common mistakes, you can create a safe, beautiful, and low-maintenance pool area that improves your outdoor living space. Next, we’ll explore budget-friendly pool landscaping ideas to help you get the most out of your investment.

Frequently Asked Questions about Pool Landscaping

What Are the Best Pool Decking Options?

When choosing pool decking, three popular options stand out: concrete, natural stone, and pavers. Each has its unique benefits:

• Concrete: It’s durable and versatile. Concrete can be poured to fit any shape, making it ideal for custom pool designs. Plus, it can be textured or colored to match your style.
• Natural Stone: Known for its beauty and elegance, natural stone offers a timeless look. It stays cool underfoot and provides excellent traction, making it a safe choice for pool areas.
• Pavers: These are easy to install and replace, offering flexibility in design. Pavers come in various colors and shapes, allowing for creative patterns. They’re also slip-resistant, which is great for safety.

What’s the Best Thing to Put Around a Pool?

When deciding what to place around your pool, consider both aesthetics and practicality. While traditional options like old carpet, cardboard boxes, and blankets might seem cost-effective, they aren’t durable or safe for long-term use. Instead, focus on materials that improve both the look and functionality of your pool area:

• Landscaping Stones: These add a natural and polished look. They’re durable and can withstand weather changes.
• Outdoor Rugs: Made for external use, these rugs can add color and comfort without the risk of damage from moisture.

What is the Cheapest Landscaping Option?

For those on a budget, using succulents, palms, and dwarf citrus can be a cost-effective way to beautify your pool area:

• Succulents: These low-maintenance plants are drought-tolerant and come in various shapes and colors. They add texture and interest to your landscaping.
• Palms: They give a tropical feel and require minimal water once established. Palms are great for creating a lush atmosphere without high maintenance.
• Dwarf Citrus: These compact trees offer the dual benefit of beauty and function, providing both shade and fruit. They’re ideal for small spaces and add a pop of color with their vibrant fruits.

Choosing the right materials and plants can transform your pool area into a stylish and functional space without breaking the bank. Next, we’ll dive into creative poolside features that can further improve your outdoor oasis.

Conclusion

At Creative Edge Pools, we believe that every backyard has the potential to become a personal paradise. Our commitment to comprehensive backyard development means we offer everything you need to create a stunning outdoor environment, from custom gunite swimming pools to intricate landscaping and masonry work.

Our custom designs are custom to fit your vision. Whether you’re dreaming of a serene oasis or a vibrant entertainment space, we work closely with you to bring that dream to life. Our team combines decades of experience with a genuine passion for design, ensuring every detail is crafted to perfection.

By choosing Creative Edge Pools, you’re not just getting a pool; you’re investing in a complete change of your outdoor space. We handle everything from initial design to final touches, so you can sit back and enjoy the process.

Let us help you splash into style and create a backyard that reflects your personality and improves your lifestyle. Contact us today to start your journey toward a beautiful and functional outdoor space that you and your family will enjoy for years to come.