How to Design Landscaping Around a Pool
Pool Landscaping:
How to Design Landscaping Around a Pool
Pool Landscaping: What Makes It Special
Landscaping around a pool isn’t like designing a regular landscape. Pools have unique environmental conditions, like sun reflection, water splash, and chemical exposure, that can affect plant health and material longevity. Your landscaping should highlight your pool as the focal point of your yard.
You’ll need to consider:
- Sun and heat tolerance: Pool areas get hot! Choose plants that thrive in full sun.
- Chlorine and salt exposure: Splash from pools can stress or damage certain plants.
- Low debris: You want plants that won’t constantly drop leaves into your pool.
A successful pool landscaping design balances durability, aesthetics, and practicality.
Choosing the Right Plants
Plant selection is key to creating a lush, low-fuss landscape that complements your pool while resisting the elements.
Best Types of Plants for Pool Areas
Palm Trees
As your local palm tree fanatics, we had to mention palm trees as our favorite for pool landscaping. Iconic, shade-giving, and clean, palm trees are an excellent choice for tropical vibes.
We recommend Pindo Palm, Sago Palm, and Mediterranean Fan Palm.
Ornamental grasses
Add texture and movement without a mess.
Try Muhly Grass or Blue Fescue.
Succulents and agaves
Perfect for hot, dry areas and need little maintenance.
Bird of Paradise
Dramatic, architectural, and splash-tolerant.
Liriope and Society Garlic
Excellent low-growing options that stay tidy.
These plants are hardy, visually striking, and low-litter, making them ideal for poolside landscaping.
Plant to Avoid Near Pools
- Deciduous trees like oaks or pecans drop leaves that clog filters and make pool maintenance a nightmare.
- Messy bloomers like crape myrtles and oleanders shed flowers that stick to wet surfaces.
- Spiny plants like cactus or yucca can be dangerous if planted too close to foot traffic areas.
- Fruit-bearing trees attract insects and wildlife that aren’t ideal near the water.
Creating a Cohesive Landscape Design with Your Pool Style
The best pool landscaping flows into the style and personality of your pool. Coordinate your planting with your pool's design to ensure an intentional feel.
- Modern pools: Use clean lines, geometric plant placements, and minimalistic designs. The symmetry of architectural plants, like agave, yucca, or horsetail reed, complements the angular design of modern pools.
- Tropical pools: Match the organic shape of your pool with curved beds. Choose lush foliage, palms, and vibrant flowering plants. Utilize cluster planting with bold colors and dynamic height to create an exotic and relaxing environment.
- Rustic, Naturalistic pools: These pools utilize boulders and water features to integrate into the landscape. Reflect the style through native plants that blend with the surrounding environment. Utilize asymmetry and wildflower-style beds with ornamental dresses for a natural, relaxed vibe.
- Mediterranean/Resort style pools: Consider warm stone pavers, olive trees, and layered greenery. For a romantic feel, include drought-tolerant plants with silvery-green leaves and climbing vines on pergolas and fences. Add terracotta pots and containers filled with herbs around your pool.
Incorporate planters to add layers and dimension, and don’t forget outdoor lighting to highlight your poolscape at night.
Ideas for Pool Landscaping
Maintenance Tips for Your Pool Landscape
Even low-maintenance pool landscapes require consistent care:
- Mulch regularly to retain soil moisture,
- Trim and shape plants to keep pathways and pools clear.
- Use drip irrigation instead of sprinklers for water efficiency and avoid overspray into the pool
- Choose slow-growing plants to minimize pruning and any overgrown foliage
- Monitor for moisture-loving pests
Pool landscaping transforms your backyard into a space you’ll love to relax in, entertain in, and show off. Every detail counts, from thoughtful plant choices to balanced design and ongoing care.
At Rosehill Palms, we help homeowners in Houston create stylish, functional, and low-maintenance poolscapes.
Contact us today for a custom landscape consultation or visit our nursery to explore pool-friendly plants!
