Your pool is a major focal point of your entire summer. Hosting parties, having the neighbors over, and grilling up some burgers on a hot Sunday afternoon all occur around your outdoor pool area. Not only is it important to have a clean and well-kept pool, it is important to have some attractive landscaping surrounding it. Choosing plants, rocks, and trees that will complement your pool is just as important as choosing shrubbery that is easy to maintain.

Trees

Choosing trees that do not constantly shed leaves is extremely important. Though fruit trees and crape myrtles look nice around your pool, you will be cleaning up fruit and flowers out of your pool most of the summer. At the very least, consider choosing trees that only drop flowers for a short period.

While some people see the obvious choice of trees to be oaks or pines, these trees tend to drop needles, leaves, pine cones, flowers, and acorns into the pool. What's worse than the extra work created is that the acorns can stain your expensive deck. Another obvious tree choice is palm trees. Most people don't think that palm trees will grow or survive in colder climates but Windmill Palm Trees and Mediterranean Fan Palms can live in climates that reach 5 degrees F. These trees create a tropical feel for your pool and rarely shed leaves or debris.

It is extremely important to consider the amount of roots the tree will create. Trees that form extensive root systems, such as mulberry or cottonwoods, can end up harming the structure of your pool.

Rocks and Pebbles

Using rocks and pebbles around the outside of the pool instead of mulch will severely decrease the amount of debris that will enter the pool. Putting these small pebbles into beds surrounding the pool will make the pool look elegant and creates a lot less work for you. Simply choose colors that compliment your home and the décor you have surrounding your pool.

Larger stones are useful to line flower beds. Mulch or soil can be used around the pool to create a small garden with flowers. The additional cleanup that comes with using mulch or soil can be minimized by placing large stones around the bed of flowers will create a nice finished look while forming a barrier to prevent the debris from entering the pool.

Plants

It is important to choose plants that do not attract stinging insects. Bees are attracted to bright, large flowers with showy blooms, such as Salvia Greggii. Additionally, avoid using plants like cactus and pyracantha, which have stickers or thorns that could accidentally hurt someone enjoying your pool.

Homeowners usually stray away from creating inground flower beds next to the pool because water can easily splash over and ruin the flowers. As an alternative, people are often choosing to use container gardens instead. These gardens are portable and generally sit above the pool, reducing the chance of pool water killing your flowers.

Landscaping around your pool can be an extensive DIY project. Because of this, many homeowners find it worthwhile to hire a professional to complete the work. Either way, a nicely landscaped area surrounding your pool will create a warm and fun atmosphere that will encourage you to spend more of your summer poolside.