Home: AGP Help Center

Above Ground Swimming Pool Landscaping

Thinking Outside The Pool

When thinking outside of the pool you should really be thinking no vegetation, especially no grass. You can also be thinking about how to make this big standalone pool in your backyard more inviting and more connected to your outdoor living space.

desert landscaping around above ground pool
The most important concept about above ground swimming pool landscaping is to keep all vegetation away from the pool.  It is best to have rock landscaping for at least 3 foot out from the pool.  All plants in that 3 foot zone should be container plants.


 

grass around an above ground swimming pool
Nut grass and Bermuda grass are the worst killers of above ground pool liners.  These types of grasses will grow up and through the liner.  Proper treatment under the pool is the first step.  Keeping the grass away from the outside of the pool is the second.  Many types of grass grow off in all directions on runners.  Keeping the grass away from the pool prevents grass from growing into the pool area and up through the liner.

This photo shows a pool in need of landscaping. The grass and weeds should not be there. It's time to bring in the landscaping crew and get it done.


 

The proper treatment for the outside of an above ground pool would be to treat the ground with a weed and grass killer, lay a sheet of black plastic and cover with decorative rock.  The plastic is very important.  Water will always be splashing out of the pool causing the ground around the pool to stay damp.  This damp ground makes a great breeding ground for grass and weeds.  Using plastic will make your landscaping efforts last a lifetime with no maintenance.  Without the plastic will, in most cases, require the area to be sprayed with weed killer on a regular basis, weekly in some yards.

 

Rocks Around Pool
The best and most effective above ground swimming pool landscaping I have seen is to partition off a section of yard just for the pool and rock landscaping.  That section of yard can be divided with a fence for child proofing.  The pool area itself can then be decorated with trees and plants, planted several feet from the pool.  Container plants work better near the pool. Large containers filled with palms, elephant ears, canna lilies can add height and drama to a pool area and being in containers you will be keeping roots from entering the pool area, under the liner.

 

Container Plants Around Pool

 

deck and pool landscaping
When considering plants farther from the pool the right ones do matter. Low maintenance plants with non-invasive roots are best. Avoid plants that drop leaves, needles or seed pods into the pool. Thorny shrubs are another bad choice, very painful to bare feet.

Pool decking is another great landscaping option.  When building a deck, planter boxes can be built in.  They are an attractive way to add greenery around the pool without the roots growing under the liner and causing damage.  Artificial plants are another way to add color to a pool area. A wraparound deck, partial deck, or a simple platform with steps can make the pool look more complete and easier to access.


Pavers Around Pool
If a deck is not in your plans consider adding a patio or walkway leading to the pool. Pavers, stepping stones or compacted gravel paths improve the looks of the pool area and reduce the amount of tracked in dirt the pool receives.

Privacy is another concern and can be addressed with a number of options. Consider privacy screens, lattice panels, trellises or shrubs that can make the area more comfortable. Be careful about too much privacy as plenty of air flow keeps the pool area more comfortable.


 

Above Ground Pool Lighting
When thinking about above ground pool landscaping lighting also comes to mind. Solar path lights, low voltage landscape lights and deck lighting can greatly improve the looks and safety of the pool area, especially for the evening or late night swims.


 

Area Around Pool
Another practical idea is to create zones around the pool, like one for lounging, one for grilling and another for storing all the pool equipment. Considering these uses, or any others you may have, can make the pool part of a complete backyard design.

Landscaping around an above ground pool is all about blending beauty with function. When you combine the right borders, plants, walkways, lighting, privacy features, and drainage solutions, your pool area can become one of the best parts of your home. With a thoughtful plan, your above ground pool can feel less like an add-on and more like a backyard destination you will enjoy for years.

I'm a pool builder, not a landscape designer, but I do know beautiful landscape options are available for around your pool, without the use of in the ground plants.  Landscape Design Advice is an excellent recourse for all types of landscape ideas.  The Patio Designs - Tips For Creative Patios is a good place to start when looking for pool landscaping ideas.


 

AGP Pool Help - Everything on this site about Above Ground Pools

 

top of Above Ground Swimming Pool Landscaping

My name is Dennis Gourley and I am located in Mesa Arizona. I cover the entire state of Arizona with quality above ground pool installations and vinyl liner installations. Reach out to me at 480-935-2848 or use my contact form.