Swimming Pool Landscaping Made Easy

Combine some imagination, creativity and a few essential facts about plants, and your swimming pool landscaping design project will be the envy of the neighborhood. Most pools are the focal point of the yard, which makes the adjacent landscaping a very important consideration. You want it to be both attractive and practical; the greenery you place around the pool needs to be compatible with the purpose and conditions of this area. 

Basics of Pool landscaping

The first place to begin is with the placement of your pool. Observe if there are any nearby trees with branches overhanging the pool; these will need to be trimmed to prevent debris from dropping into the water. Next, determine  how people will approach the pool. A stone pathway could be installed, and you could choose either a straight-line route or curve the walkway to complement the shape of the pool. Having a path is essential for convenience and to minimize grass clippings or dirt from getting into the water when you or your guests step into the pool.

Another important consideration in pool landscaping is the planting of appropriate shrubs, flowering plants or ornamental grasses that will add a feeling of beauty or privacy. If this greenery may be splashed by chlorinated water, check with an expert at your local garden center to determine which types of plants are hardy for this situation. Certain ornamental grasses are especially popular in pool landscaping because they are so low-maintenance.

Shrubs can be planted strategically around the pool for seclusion, but don't select conifers that shed their needles; this will make cleaning the pool that much more difficult. If you want a more private area, consider adding trellises. These can be painted to accent or blend in with your overall design as you choose. There are also many vine type plants that can be trained to grow on a trellis, which would give your pool area a cozy feel.

Landscape Accessories

After you have started your pool landscaping, take a few steps back. Do you have a patio? Do you want one? In many ways, a patio is like an outdoor room, and care should be taken when selecting the furniture and other accessories. There are many options to choose from when it comes to patio furniture; anything from wicker sets to casual comfy hammocks.

Wind chimes, a bird feeder or several containers of colorful flowers can complete the design. A gazebo can provide shade and privacy, while a fountain can add soothing water sounds to enhance the peacefulness of your relaxing retreat. Pool landscaping gives you an excellent opportunity to create an ambience that can as inviting or as invigorating as you wish.