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Best Plants to for Landscaping Around a Pool

Best Plants to for Landscaping Around a Pool

A swimming pool enhances the aesthetics of your property while offering a fun way to keep cool in the summertime. Once you’ve installed the pool and deck, your next step is to fill in the landscape with beautiful plants. Naturally, you’ll want to avoid putting large plants with leaves and twigs that could fall into the water too close to the pool. But these pool-friendly plants will all enhance the landscape without causing problems with the water.

Choose Colorful Flowering Plants

If your vision is to create a tropical aquatic paradise in your backyard, you can’t go wrong with adding beautiful flowering plants. Hibiscus grows well in the area, and the big, colorful blossoms can attract hummingbirds. Bird of Paradise is another tropical plant with noticeably striking flowers that can last in the heat.

Consider Succulents for Easy Maintenance

Drought-tolerant plants are ideal for properties in the area that prefer to conserve water. Agave, yucca, and aloe are a few ideas for succulents that can fill in rock beds and other elements in the landscape. Keep in mind succulents do best with small amounts of water. You’ll want to keep these plants out of the splash zone to avoid having them get overwatered by accident. Including succulents in the landscaping also allows you to spend more time swimming and less time worrying about lawn care.

Explore Ornamental Grasses

Many ornamental grasses don’t require lots of water, and they’ll grow with minimal need for mowing and trimming to keep plant matter out of the water. Zebra grass is one variety to consider, and it’s known for having variegated colors that add interest to the landscape. Fountain grass is another type to consider, and you’ll find the arching plumes add a whimsical touch to the space. If you prefer a little color, you’ll find blue fescue looks beautiful alongside a swimming pool. As you select grasses, keep in mind the colors in the tile, pool surround, and other key elements of your swimming area. Whether you decide to match or contrast is up to you, but the colors of the plants will impact the overall effect.

Pick Bug-Repellant Plants

Selecting plants that serve multiple purposes always helps you maximize the benefits you enjoy from placing them near the pool area. Since pools can sometimes attract insects, it’s smart to choose a few plants known for having bug-repelling properties. For instance, lemongrass, rosemary, and basil are a few plants you might want to scatter around the pool area. Not only will these plants keep bugs away, but you’ll also enjoy their pleasant and relaxing scents. Mint is another fun option you might choose to grow in the backyard. Creating a little herb garden can also give you fresh options for garnishing drinks or using them during your backyard BBQs and pool parties.

Whether they’re looking for advice on landscaping around a pool or they need an exceptional contractor to perform their in-ground pool installation, San Diego homeowners can rely on the experienced professionals from San Diego Pools. As one of the most respected San Diego pool contractors, we’ve been transforming customer dreams into reality with innovative design and custom construction for more than 40 years. Give us a call today to learn how we can build the pool that’s perfect for you.

About the Author

Josh Lawson

Josh Lawson is the President of San Diego Pools and has been part of the company since 1996. He began his career in pool service before moving into project management, design, and leadership, gaining hands-on experience in every phase of the pool construction process. Today, Josh leads San Diego Pools’ Commercial Division and remains closely involved in the design of both residential and commercial pools throughout California. With decades of industry experience, Josh approaches pool design with a focus on longevity, craftsmanship, and how a space makes people feel. He believes the most successful pools are not defined by size or features, but by their ability to create a sense of relaxation, escape, and connection to everyday life. His work reflects a thoughtful balance between architecture, environment, and lifestyle, resulting in pools that feel timeless, immersive, and built to last