How to Landscape Around an Inground Pool: 5 Best Ideas
How to landscape around an inground pool is a question many pool owners ask when looking to enhance their outdoor space. A well-designed poolscape can significantly boost the functionality and aesthetics of your backyard. If you’re in a hurry, here are the basics:
- Ensure safety first with proper fencing.
- Choose plants that don’t shed leaves or attract insects.
- Opt for hardscaping features like decks and pergolas.
- Use mulch or rocks as ground cover to reduce maintenance.
- Implement effective lighting and comfortable seating.
Transforming your pool area into a beautiful and safe haven doesn’t have to be complicated.
I’m David Brabant, owner of Creative Edge Pools. With over 30 years in the swimming pool and site development business, I’ve seen how proper landscaping can enhance your pool area. Let’s dive into the essential dos and don’ts for landscaping your inground pool.
Choosing the Right Plants for Your Poolscape
Choosing the right plants for your poolscape is crucial for creating a beautiful and functional outdoor space. The right plants can add privacy, color, and character to your pool area. Here are some key points to consider:
Sun vs. Shade
First, determine whether your pool area is mostly sunny or shaded. Most pools are in sunny spots, needing plants that thrive in full sun. Check plant tags for sun requirements to ensure you choose the right ones.
If your pool is shaded by nearby trees, opt for shade-loving plants. Incorrect placement can lead to unhappy plants and a less attractive poolscape.
Evergreens for Privacy
Evergreens like arborvitae, cypress, and yew are excellent for privacy. They provide year-round greenery and minimal leaf litter, making them perfect for pool areas.
Pro Tip: “Evergreens are ideal because they keep their foliage all year, ensuring privacy and a consistent look,” says David Brabant, owner of Creative Edge Pools.
Ornamental Grasses
Ornamental grasses such as liriope, blue fescue, and switchgrass add a lush, low-maintenance touch. They blend well with irregular pool edges and create a natural look. Taller grasses sway gently in the breeze, adding movement and interest.
Small Trees
Small trees like various types of palm trees can provide shade and a tropical feel without overwhelming the space. Place them far enough from the pool to avoid leaves, cones, or fruit falling into the water.
Vining Plants
Vining plants like climbing roses are great for adding vertical interest. They can grow over trellises, pergolas, or other tall structures, providing flowering beauty and additional privacy.
Case Study: A client used climbing roses on a pergola near their pool, which not only added a stunning visual element but also created a shaded seating area.
Choosing the right plants is just the beginning. Next, we’ll explore hardscaping ideas to further enhance your pool area.
Hardscaping Ideas to Enhance Your Pool Area
Hardscaping elements can transform your pool area from ordinary to extraordinary. Here are some essential features to consider:
Gazebo
A gazebo provides a shaded retreat where you can relax and escape the sun. It’s perfect for setting up a cozy seating area or even a dining space.
Pro Tip: Choose a gazebo with curtains or screens to keep out bugs and add privacy.
Outdoor Kitchen
Imagine grilling burgers while your friends swim nearby. An outdoor kitchen makes this dream a reality. Equip it with a grill, sink, and mini-fridge for ultimate convenience.
Fact: Outdoor kitchens can increase your home’s value by up to 12%.
Pergola
A pergola adds architectural interest and partial shade. It’s ideal for growing vining plants like climbing roses, which can create a beautiful, shaded area.
Case Study: One client installed a pergola with climbing roses near their pool. It provided both shade and a stunning visual element.
Fire Pit
A fire pit extends your pool’s usability into the evening. Gather around for warmth, light, and marshmallow roasting.
Pro Tip: Position the fire pit at a safe distance from the pool to avoid accidental splashes.
Pool Deck
A pool deck is essential for both safety and aesthetics. Opt for materials like travertine, flagstone, or composite decking, which are slip-resistant and stay cool underfoot.
Pro Tip: Wooden pool decks offer a warm, natural look but require regular maintenance to prevent splinters and warping.
Walkways
Walkways made of pavers, stone, brick, or concrete help keep feet clean and define the space around your pool. They also enhance safety by providing clear paths.
Pro Tip: Solar-powered lights along walkways add both safety and ambiance.
Hardscaping elements are just one part of creating a perfect pool area. Next, we’ll discuss fencing and privacy solutions to complete your backyard oasis.
Fencing and Privacy Solutions
When it comes to how to landscape around an inground pool, safety and privacy are key. Here are some ideas to keep your pool area secure and secluded.
Safety Fences
Safety should always come first. A safety fence around your pool is essential, especially if you have kids or pets. Modern pool fences come in various styles and materials, like glass, metal, and vinyl, that can complement your backyard design.
Pro Tip: The International Swimming Pool and Spa Code sets minimum guidelines for pool safety. Always check your local regulations.
Screened Pool
In some areas, especially in Florida, a screened pool is a popular option. Screen enclosures keep bugs out and add an extra layer of safety. They also provide some shade, which can be a relief on hot days.
Evergreen Privacy Screens
For a natural look, evergreen privacy screens like boxwood or holly can create a year-round green barrier. They not only add privacy but also reduce noise and wind.
Case Study: One homeowner in Texas used boxwood hedges to create a dense wall of greenery around their pool, providing both privacy and a beautiful backdrop.
Bamboo
Bamboo is another excellent option for privacy. It grows quickly and creates a lush, tropical feel. Just make sure to choose clumping bamboo varieties to avoid invasive growth.
Vine-Covered Structures
Vine-covered structures like trellises and pergolas can add both beauty and privacy. Vines like ivy or wisteria can cover these structures, creating a natural, green curtain.
Pro Tip: Combining a trellis with flowering vines like jasmine or clematis can add fragrance and color to your pool area.
Fencing and privacy solutions not only keep your pool area safe but also make it a more enjoyable and private space. Next, we’ll explore lighting and seating options to enhance comfort and safety around your pool.
Lighting and Seating for Comfort and Safety
Lighting and seating are crucial for making your pool area both comfortable and safe. Let’s explore some key options:
LED Options
LED lights are a game-changer for pool lighting. They use up to 90% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last up to 25 times longer. LEDs also produce more brightness per watt, making your pool area well-lit and inviting.
LEDs come in various colors, allowing you to set the mood for any occasion. Imagine having red, white, and blue lights for the 4th of July or calming blues and greens for a relaxing evening swim. Some LED systems can even be controlled via remote or smartphone, giving you full control right at your fingertips.
Solar Path Lights
Solar path lights are an eco-friendly option to illuminate walkways around your pool. They absorb sunlight during the day and automatically light up at night. This not only saves on electricity but also makes installation a breeze since no wiring is required.
Tiki Torches
For a tropical vibe, tiki torches are a fantastic addition. They add a warm, flickering light and can also help keep mosquitoes at bay if you use citronella fuel. Place them strategically around the pool area to create a cozy and exotic atmosphere.
Lounge Chairs
Lounge chairs are a must-have for any poolside. Opt for comfortable, weather-resistant materials like teak, aluminum, or resin wicker. Arrange them in both sunny and shaded areas to cater to all your guests’ preferences.
Shade Umbrellas
Shade umbrellas provide essential sun protection. They come in various styles and sizes, and some even have tilting mechanisms to adjust the shade as the sun moves. Place them near lounge chairs or seating areas to offer a cool retreat from the sun.
Pergolas
Pergolas offer both shade and style. These structures can be customized with climbing plants like ivy or wisteria for added beauty and privacy. A pergola can also serve as a framework for hanging lights or installing a ceiling fan to keep the area cool.
Quick Tip: Combining multiple lighting and seating options can create a versatile and comfortable pool area that meets all your needs.
By incorporating these lighting and seating options, you’ll create a pool area that’s not only beautiful but also functional and safe. Next, let’s look at some maintenance tips to keep your pool landscape pristine.
Maintenance Tips for a Pristine Pool Landscape
Keeping your pool landscape pristine doesn’t have to be a chore. Here are some simple tips to maintain a beautiful and functional pool area.
Mulch vs. Rocks
Mulch and rocks are great alternatives to grass around your pool.
Mulch is organic and can help retain moisture for your plants. It’s also softer underfoot. However, it does need to be replaced periodically as it decomposes.
Rocks, on the other hand, are very low maintenance. They don’t need to be replaced and are great for controlling weeds. But, they can get hot in the sun and may not be as comfortable to walk on.
Low-Maintenance Shrubs
Choose low-maintenance shrubs to add greenery without the hassle. Opt for plants like boxwood or juniper that don’t require frequent pruning. They are hardy and can withstand the pool environment.
Artificial Grass
Artificial grass is another low-maintenance option. It stays green all year round and doesn’t require watering, mowing, or fertilizing. While it has a higher upfront cost, it can save you time and money in the long run.
Mosquito Control
No one wants mosquitoes around their pool. Here are some tips to keep them at bay:
- Remove standing water: Mosquitoes lay eggs in still water. Drain any puddles and cover your pool when not in use.
- Use mosquito larvicides: These can be added to rain barrels, fountains, or ponds to kill larvae.
- Apply adulticides: These sprays can kill adult mosquitoes, reducing their population.
Safety Equipment
Safety is crucial around a pool. Consider these options:
- Pool covers: Some covers can prevent drowning and keep debris out.
- Safety fences: Ensure your pool area is fenced off to prevent accidents.
- First aid kits: Keep a kit nearby for any minor injuries.
By following these maintenance tips, you’ll keep your pool landscape looking great and functioning well. Now, let’s dive into some final thoughts and tips for your pool area.
Conclusion
At Creative Edge Pools, we understand that your pool area is more than just a place to swim—it’s a centerpiece for relaxation, entertainment, and family fun. Landscaping around your inground pool can enhance its beauty and functionality, making it a true backyard oasis.
When considering how to landscape around an inground pool, remember these key points:
- Plant Selection: Choose plants that thrive in your local climate and require minimal maintenance. Opt for evergreens, ornamental grasses, and small trees to create a lush, inviting environment.
- Hardscaping: Incorporate features like gazebos, outdoor kitchens, pergolas, and fire pits. These additions not only enhance the visual appeal but also provide practical benefits like shade and cooking areas.
- Fencing and Privacy: Ensure safety with proper fencing and add privacy with evergreen screens or vine-covered structures. This keeps the pool area secure and serene.
- Lighting and Seating: Use LED lights, solar path lights, and tiki torches to illuminate the area. Comfortable seating like lounge chairs and shade umbrellas make the space welcoming at any time of day.
- Maintenance: Opt for low-maintenance options like artificial grass, mulch, and rocks. Regular mosquito control and safety equipment like pool covers and first aid kits are essential for a safe and enjoyable pool area.
By following these guidelines, you’ll create a poolscape that is both beautiful and functional, ensuring years of enjoyment.
Ready to transform your backyard into a paradise? At Creative Edge Pools, we specialize in designing and installing stunning gunite swimming pools and comprehensive pool landscaping solutions. Contact us today to bring your vision to life!
