The right landscaping can really help make your pool more visually appealing but it has potential for providing much more: privacy, mosquito repellent and some shade for those especially hot days. When choosing plants for your pool area, you want to choose those that will thrive and not become added work. The wrong plants could add unnecessary leaves and debris to your pool so you want to be wise when choosing the right plants for your pool landscape.
Bug Repellent Plants
Since pools tend to attract pesky bugs like mosquitos, you should consider adding mosquito-repelling varieties. Basil, citronella, geraniums, lavendar, marigolds and catnip are all plants that could help to make your favorite hangout spot more enjoyable. If you use planter boxes or pots, you would have the flexibility to move them around as needed.
Salt Loving Plants
Frequent salt water splashing could harm and eventually kill off some plants so if you have a salt water pool, it would be wise to use plants that can tolerate a little salt water. Look for plants that naturally grow along ocean areas like century plant or holly. Other plants that do well in salty soils are rosemary, seaside goldenrod and daylilies.
Ornamental Grass
Ornamental grass adds pleasing movement around your landscape and are typically very low maintenance. Other benefits are that they grow fast and blend nicely with other plants. Zebra grass is an ornamental grass that comes in a variety of colors that contrast nicely with the blue of pool water.
Vines
Vines are great for pool landscaping. They grow quickly and have easy care. Ornamental grass (mentioned above) and vines both provide privacy for your outdoor space. Trailing vines can easily cover a trellis or other fencing, or act as a living roof on arbors and pergolas. Vine varieties include honeysuckle, jasmine, trumpet vine, and sweet potato vines.
Succulents
Because of their low maintenance, succulents are another great choice for pool areas. They are drought tolerant and do well in rock gardens or planter pots. Large succulents like yucca or crassula can grow large enough to serve as a natural barrier while smaller varieties like sedum can be used to fill in bare areas.
Tropical
Another great option for poolside landscapes are of the tropical variety such as banana tree, hibiscus and bird of paradise. Tropical plants can transform your backyard into a retreat making them a great addition for many homeowners.
You should always make wise choices when picking out your plants for your pool landscape. Things to keep in mind when choosing are: maintenance, climate, privacy, and design. You always want to make sure that your plants are right for your climate zone and soil conditions.
Resources:
https://www.thespruce.com/landscaping-ideas-for-pool-areas-4061234
https://www.swimmingpool.com/blog/the-best-plants-for-landscaping-around-your-pool/
https://www.thespruce.com/poolside-plants-that-look-like-paradise-4063955