Creating a lush, inviting atmosphere around your swimming pool enhances both aesthetics and functionality. The right poolside plants not only add visual appeal but also offer shade, privacy, and a natural cooling effect. However, not all plants are suitable for such environments. They must tolerate heat, humidity, splashing chlorinated water, and traffic from swimmers. In this comprehensive guide, we explore the best plants to plant around a pool, focusing on their practicality, beauty, and care requirements.
Understanding the Poolside Environment
Before diving into specific plant recommendations, it’s essential to understand the unique growing conditions around a swimming pool.
Factors to Consider
When selecting plants for your pool area, consider:
- Heat and Sun Exposure: Pool areas often receive full sun and can be quite hot, especially in summer.
- Water Splashing: Plants near the pool are frequently exposed to water splashes, which may contain chlorine or salt.
- Durability: The best poolside plants can withstand occasional foot traffic, sunscreen residue, and pool chemicals.
- Fragrance and Allergens: Choose plants with pleasant scents and minimal pollen to enhance comfort and reduce allergens.
- Maintenance Level: Plants should be low-maintenance, resistant to pests, and not drop excessive leaves, fruit, or flowers that may clog filters or dirty the water.
Top Plants for Poolside Beauty and Practicality
1. Dwarf Palms
Dwarf palms, such as the *Phoenix roebelenii* (pygmy date palm) or the *Chamaedorea seifrizii* (bamboo palm), are among the top choices for poolside planting. These compact palms bring a tropical vibe without overpowering the space.
Benefits:
- Tolerate full sun and heat
- Clean, minimal leaf drop
- Low allergen profile
- Add vertical interest and partial shade
2. Liriope (Liriope muscari)
Liriope, commonly known as “monkey grass,” is a versatile ground cover ideal for edges, borders, and shaded poolside corners. Its grass-like foliage and spiky purple or white flowers make it a favorite for low-maintenance landscaping.
Why It Works Around a Pool:
- Tolerates sun or partial shade
- Resilient to splashing water and chlorinated conditions
- Minimal pest and disease issues
- Forms dense clumps, preventing weed growth
3. Dwarf Yaupon Holly (Ilex vomitoria ‘Nana’)
Perfect for creating clean, evergreen hedges around a pool, the dwarf yaupon holly thrives in sunny, hot conditions. It’s drought-tolerant and does well in coastal areas.
Key Features:
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Dense foliage | Provides privacy and windbreak |
| Small leaves | Reduces pool maintenance, less debris in water |
| Evergreen | Year-round appeal and consistency |
4. Agave and Ornamental Grasses
For a sleek, modern look around the pool, consider agave or ornamental grasses such as feather reed grass or blue fescue. These are excellent options for adding texture and architectural interest.
Why Choose Them:
- Drought tolerant and low-maintenance
- Unique shape and color contrast
- Minimal water requirements once established
5. Crepe Myrtle (Lagerstroemia spp.)
Crepe myrtles add seasonal beauty and a splash of color to poolscapes. Their summer blooms and attractive bark make them visually appealing, while their relatively clean habit keeps your pool area pristine.
Planting Tips:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Plant away from waterline | To avoid root interference with pool structure |
| Choose dwarf varieties | For smaller spaces and less cleanup |
| Mulch well | To retain moisture and control soil temperature |
Other Excellent Options
6. Geraniums and Marigolds
For a burst of annual color around the pool, geraniums and marigolds are ideal. They’re sun-loving, drought-tolerant, and thrive in containers, making them easy to maintain and move if needed.
Best Practices:
- Plant in pots or elevated beds to avoid chlorine damage
- Deadhead regularly to promote blooming
7. Lemon and Lime Trees in Containers
If you want a touch of edible landscaping, consider citrus trees in containers. They bring a fragrant, cheerful atmosphere to the pool area and are easy to care for with the right sunlight and drainage.
Advantages:
- Highly aromatic and attractive
- Can be moved indoors during colder months
- Low shedding when well-maintained
How to Choose Based on Climate and Pool Type
Climate Considerations
Your local climate greatly influences the best plant choices. Let’s break down options based on climate zones.
| Climate Zone | Best Plants |
|---|---|
| Tropical (e.g., Florida, Southern California) | Dwarf palms, hibiscus, bird of paradise, bromeliads |
| Temperate (e.g., Pacific Northwest, Mid-Atlantic) | Liriope, ornamental grasses, hydrangeas, lavender |
| Arid (e.g., Arizona, Nevada) | Agave, yucca, desert mallow, Mexican bird’s eye |
Saltwater vs. Chlorine Pools
If your pool is saltwater-based, your plant choices must be salt-tolerant. Consider plants like:
- Sea holly (Eryngium)
- Bay laurel (Laurus nobilis)
- Orange jasmine (Murraya paniculata)
Chlorinated pools are more forgiving, but plants still need to tolerate occasional splashes. Most of the previously mentioned plants do well here when planted a few feet back from the edge.
Design Tips for Planting Around a Pool
Balance Aesthetics and Practicality
To achieve a stunning but functional poolside garden:
- Use a mix of evergreen and flowering plants for year-round appeal
- Alternate tall and short plants for visual harmony
Layer Your Plantings for Depth
| Planting Layer | Examples |
|---|---|
| Background (tall plants) | Dwarf palms, crepe myrtle, hedges |
| Middle layer | Liriope, ornamental grasses |
| Foreground | Dwarf shrubs, flowering annuals |
Consider Paving and Plant Integration
Integrate plants with the surrounding hardscape. Use planters, raised beds, or built-in borders that complement decking or stone around the pool to enhance continuity and curb appeal.
Conclusion: Building Your Ideal Poolside Landscape
Choosing the best plant to plant around a pool goes beyond aesthetics—it’s about creating a functional, enjoyable environment that complements your lifestyle and withstands the rigors of pool use. Opt for clean, low-mess plants that tolerate sun, water splashes, and chemicals. Incorporate a mix of textures and colors for visual interest, and always align your choices with local climate and personal maintenance preferences.
Whether you prefer a tropical retreat, a minimalist modern landscape, or a colorful blooming paradise, the poolside planting options are versatile enough to suit every outdoor space. Start by assessing your pool’s conditions, and select plants that harmonize beauty with resilience to transform your pool area into an oasis that delights year-round.
What are the best plants to plant around a pool?
The best plants for poolside landscaping are those that are low-maintenance, non-invasive, and safe for swimmers. Some top choices include ornamental grasses, such as fountain grass or mondo grass, which add texture without shedding excessive leaves or flowers. Dwarf shrubs like boxwood or dwarf yaupon holly are also excellent options because they are tidy and can be shaped to fit the pool area’s design. Additionally, fragrant plants like gardenia or jasmine can enhance the ambiance, provided they are spaced to avoid overcrowding or leaf litter in the water.
It’s also wise to choose plants that do not drop a lot of flowers, seeds, or leaves, as these can clog pool filters and require more maintenance. Palms, such as the pygmy date palm or areca palm, are visually appealing and contribute to a tropical feel without creating a mess. Groundcovers like liriope or creeping thyme can fill spaces nicely and tolerate foot traffic. Always consider the local climate and the plant’s sunlight and water requirements to ensure that they thrive near the pool without demanding excessive care.
Why should I consider landscaping around my pool with plants?
Landscaping around your pool with plants enhances both the aesthetic appeal and the comfort of your outdoor space. Plants can offer privacy, reduce wind, and create a natural, tranquil atmosphere that mimics a resort-like environment. They also help absorb splashed water and can contribute to lowering the surrounding temperature through transpiration, making the poolside area more comfortable during hot weather. Selecting the right greenery gives you the ability to blend function and beauty.
Moreover, poolside plants can help minimize soil erosion and act as a natural filter for runoff, reducing the chance of debris washing into the pool. Thoughtful planting can also define the space, guide traffic flow, and complement the architectural style of your home and pool deck. By using a variety of textures and colors, you can create visual interest and a welcoming ambiance. Just be sure to keep your maintenance schedule in mind to ensure that your landscaping remains sustainable and doesn’t become a hassle.
What characteristics should good poolside plants have?
Good poolside plants should be non-invasive, low-maintenance, and ideally non-toxic to ensure swimmer safety and ease of care. They should not shed excessively—low-litter plants like palms or evergreen shrubs are especially ideal because they won’t constantly drop leaves, flowers, or seeds into the water. Drought-tolerant and salt-tolerant species are beneficial as well, since they can handle splashes of chlorinated water and the potentially harsh outdoor conditions near a pool.
Another important trait is resistance to pests and diseases, which reduces the need for chemical treatments that could be harmful to swimmers and the environment. The plants should also be adaptable to a range of light conditions or match the sun exposure around your pool. For safety, avoid species with thorns, prickly leaves, or those that make surfaces slippery when wet. The overall goal is to create a lush, inviting setting with minimal ongoing effort and maximum durability.
Are there plants that should be avoided near a pool?
Yes, some plants should be avoided around pools due to their invasive roots, high litter, or potentially hazardous features. Trees such as willows and figs have aggressive root systems that can damage pool structures or plumbing. Also, flowering trees like jacarandas or magnolias, while beautiful, drop large amounts of blossoms and leaves that can dirty the pool water and clog filters and drains.
Moreover, plants with thorns or spines—such as roses, bougainvillea, or agave—pose a safety risk in a high-traffic area where people might be barefoot or playing around the pool. Fruit-bearing trees like figs, citrus, or fruitless olive trees can create slippery walkways and attract pests like bees and wasps due to dropped fruit and sap. Even tall grasses or those that shed easily can become problematic if not properly maintained. When choosing greenery for near your pool, it’s wise to research each species’ mature size and habits to prevent future problems.
Can I use potted plants around my pool?
Potted plants are an excellent choice for poolside landscaping because they offer flexibility and control over soil, drainage, and plant placement. Using containers allows you to incorporate a wide range of species, including some that might not be well suited to the local climate or ground conditions. You can easily rearrange pots to highlight design elements or create temporary shade and privacy, and even bring select plants indoors during extreme weather.
However, it’s important to choose pots made of durable, weather-resistant materials like fiberglass, stone, or high-quality plastic that won’t warp or fade in the sun. Ensure that all pots have proper drainage holes to prevent water from pooling inside, which can lead to root rot or slips on wet surfaces. Selecting the right plants for your pots—like dwarf palms, ornamental grasses, or flowering perennials—can enhance the pool area without contributing excessive litter. Just be sure to regularly check potting soil moisture and maintain plants to keep your poolside garden looking fresh year-round.
What about using ground cover plants near a pool?
Ground cover plants are a great solution for poolside landscaping, especially in areas that are difficult to maintain with grass or are prone to erosion. They help suppress weeds, reduce moisture loss from the soil, and create a soft, cohesive look around the pool deck. Ideal options include liriope, which is tough and grass-like, or creeping thyme, which is aromatic and can tolerate some foot traffic. These plants not only beautify the area but also contribute to a natural, low-effort design.
When selecting ground cover, it’s important to choose species that are non-invasive and won’t grow rapidly into unwanted spaces. Additionally, look for varieties that thrive in the light conditions of your poolside area and require little water once established. Certain ground covers, such as ice plant or sedum, are drought-tolerant and add a splash of color without needing constant attention. Make sure to leave enough space between plants and the pool edge to avoid root damage and keep maintenance accessible.
How do I maintain plants near a pool?
Maintaining plants near a pool requires regular pruning, cleaning, and monitoring to prevent interference with water quality and pool operation. Trimming excess growth will minimize leaf and flower litter that can clog filters or create unsightly debris in your pool. It’s also a good idea to periodically rinse foliage with clean water to remove any chlorine residue or mineral buildup from pool water splashes, which can otherwise cause stress or discoloration to the plants.
In addition to pruning, regular inspection for pests and diseases is crucial, as stressed plants can become quickly infested, especially in warm, humid conditions. Use organic or pool-safe treatments to manage any potential problems without contaminating the water. Also, consider using drip irrigation or soaker hoses to water your poolside plants efficiently without oversaturating the area or contributing to runoff. With thoughtful care and attention, your poolside plants can remain healthy, attractive, and supportive of a relaxing, well-maintained outdoor environment.