'Consider how much of the pool you can see from the house, and what kind of mood you’re going for,' Azevedo tells us. One last pool landscaping tip to keep in mind? But I can say that many pools are rectangular, and so I’d suggest trying to soften those hard edges and corners with soft blooms that reflect a little color into the water.' 10. 'I’d say the best ideas are the best ideas for your landscape. The pool is an area of high activity, and even when it’s not, it’s often a focal point, so making sure that the contrast with the garden is not too jarring is important. But don't just take our word for it.įrederico Azevedo, of Unlimited Earth Care (opens in new tab) says, 'The pool is one of the most important areas of the home, and as a landscape designer I put a lot of energy into planning the transition into the pool area and enhancing its experience and sense of place. Along with helping to create a modern or jungle-inspired feel, these styles can transform the whole look and feel of a space and help to soften man-made areas of landscaping. Urban zen designs and tropical garden planting are two gorgeous looks for every type of backyard space.

Use natural stones to blend into the background Perennials such as lavender (opens in new tab), agastache, and gaura are perfect for their long bloom times, attracting butterflies and fragrance and they mix well with many grasses and shrubs.' 8. 'Small-leaf evergreens such as boxwood (opens in new tab), yew and holly are safe bets, hydrangea (opens in new tab) and clethra are wonderful for summer color. Plantings that don’t drop their leaves, flower petals, or other detritus during the summer months are best to help keep the patio area and pool cleaner. She says, 'One of the most important things I consider when selecting plants for a pool area is their level of messiness, particularly during the summer months when the pool isn’t covered. This is why, as Cervoni recommends when it comes to plants, only plant foliage that doesn't drop. Choose non-slip stones for poolside spotsĪfter you've gone to the effort of creating an amazing pool setup, you'll want to keep it fresh and clean to use all year round. You can pick up an Arborvitae on Amazon (opens in new tab) along with a more plush-looking European Cypress tree (opens in new tab). This way, you can make educated decisions about species of plants and choose plants that can ward away certain pests like insects and deer.' It's also worth the time and money to engage with a landscape designer to advise on the best species for your particular geography. If you are craving and unique look for a premium, you can get European Cypress. 'Just make sure when you plant them that they don't obstruct the natural line of the sunlight as it passes overhead. 'Fast-growing trees like Arborvitaes are well priced, take to new soil easily, and can grow into one cohesive green wall, almost like a hedge if you plant them close together. Interior designers, Hillary Kaplan and Miriam Silver Verga of Mimi & Hill (opens in new tab)say, 'We love to use trees as a fast and easy way to create privacy when neighbors have a view into your yard. Want to add some privacy to your pool area? Landscaping with trees is a wonderful way to inject privacy and even more greenery to your poolside. Brown Steel Arched Beam Pergola with Sling Canopy (opens in new tab) offers ample space for a dining or conversation set,' Foster adds. While pergolas are another type of poolside shading for hosting any celebration. Or lounge comfortably next to the pool and out of the sun in the Home Decorators Collection Arbor Point Commercial Aluminum Outdoor Day Bed with Sunbrella Antique Beige Cushions (opens in new tab). Holden Outdoor Patio Black Hard Top Galvanized Steel Gazebo (opens in new tab) is a great shady solution to elevate your poolside setup. Put a chaise lounge or poolside daybed underneath to help improve the pool area.' Jessica Foster, Merchant of Direct Fulfillment at The Home Depot (opens in new tab)says, 'An outdoor structure like a gazebo can give you shelter from harsh sun rays and provide the ultimate relaxation near your pool.

But that's where a pool-friendly gazebo, sunbrella or the best shade plants can come into play. Especially when there's the reflection of the sun on the water to consider.

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