20 Beautiful Pool Landscaping Ideas for Creating a Relaxing Oasis (2024)

FAQs

What is the best landscaping to put around an above ground pool? ›

Using gravel or rock is one of the most popular ways when landscaping around your above ground pool. These rocks are readily available and suitable for all climates. They range in sizes, shapes and colors so you can always find the style you need to compliment the rest of your yard.

Fountain grass

Most are drought-tolerant plants. As well as fountain grass, landscaping expert Gene Caballero also recommends maiden grass and blue fescue – 'popular choices that add elegance and movement to a pool area. 'These grasses are low maintenance and can withstand varying weather conditions.

Many pool owners simply build a concrete pathway surrounding the pool in lieu of landscaping. Instead, if you want a truly beautiful pool area, imagine upgraded pavers, terrific lighting, aromatic flowers, and inviting seating spaces. These add-ons will make your backyard and pool area a sight to behold.

Other Pool Area Ideas

While the right plants can definitely help create a tropical feel to your pool, don't overlook the value that other elements can bring to your little slice of paradise. Hardscapes – Instead of plain concrete around your pool, think about using natural stone pavers and/or crushed gravel walkways.

Install raised decking around the pool

Decking looks fantastic around most pool areas. For above-ground pools, raised decking with steps approaching the area can be the centerpiece of your backyard, especially if you have sufficient space to install a large deck area with seating and shaded areas.

Commonly used in driveways, this stone is limestone, so it will corrode the metal liner around an above ground pool. Further, it is not barefoot friendly. Either River Jacks, Brown Landscape Stone, or Pure Red Landscape Stone is a necessity for around an above ground pool.

Around a pool, use shrubs that have minimal shedding, and consider using shrubs that do not lose their leaves in the fall. Choose an evergreen variety for easy maintenance, like Little Ollies. This fruitless shrub variety of the olive tree is elegant with light gray-green leaves. Or try the typical boxwood.

Hydrangeas are a good option for those areas near the edges of the yard since these plants tend to grow quite large. Other options for smaller shrubs that can handle splashes of pool water? Tropical Hibiscus can offer both privacy and a hint of lusciousness to your pool area with large sun-loving blooms.

Tropical Hibiscus, Hibiscus Rosa-Sinensis

Big bright flowers all season long, glossy dark green foliage and an iconic tropical appearance make this one of the most popular poolside plants. Although hibiscus plants drop flower petals every day, many pool owners are willing to overlook the minor cleanup detail.

How to make your pool area more inviting? ›

Creative placement of patio furniture makes pool areas more interesting and inviting. In addition, garden statues, candles, and pillows on and around your furniture present a warm and comfortable space. Some furniture even features hidden storage, which comes in handy when you want to hide items out of sight.

Give Yourself Some Shade and Privacy

Create some shade and privacy in and around your pool with strategic planter placements. Use a series of planters with tall decorative plants to create a pleasing setting that adds privacy. For the same effect with an overall lower cost, a long rectangular planter will do the trick.

One of the coolest options for pool deck surfaces are textured acrylic coatings. A coating that's made of concrete and acrylic will absorb less heat than other materials.

Choosing lighter pool colors can create the illusion of more space and make your pool more of a focal point within your backyard. Pearlescent white shades or lighter grays and blues can really make your pool pop and stand out more!

An umbrella placed on the side of the pool can provide a modicum of shade for those in the water and out and homeowners can place them wherever they like, adjusting them with the movement of the sun throughout the day.

Most rocks will not break down over time and will not need to be replaced each season, unlike mulch. Rainwater will be dissipated by the layer of rock around the perimeter of your pool wall.

Edge your pool with shrubs and other plants that tolerate salt and chlorine. Examples include wax myrtle, beach morning glories and Japanese box. Avoid planting bushes or plants directly next to the ladder -- leave about a 3-foot space on either side.

Natural stone makes an excellent pool surround for above ground pools. Stack flat rocks up against the sides of the pool, wrapping it to create a natural look and hide ugly exterior pool walls.

You should know that you should never drain an above ground pool without filling it back up. This is especially true if it has a vinyl liner. The pool can be drained, but typically only when it is in need of a repair or it is being disassembled. Draining the pool often can shrink the liner, and wear it out over time.