Perfect Pool Landscaping

Creating attractive above ground pool landscaping can be a challenge because most of the ideas and tips you find out there are designed for inground pools. All you really need is a little inspiration, though. Set within the right landscape, an above ground pool can be just as attractive and fun to use as any inground pool. Here are some easy ways to make it happen:

Do the deck right

For an above ground pool, the deck can make or break the look of the pool area. Sure, you could forgo the deck altogether and just hook a ladder over the side of the pool, but it doesn’t look very good and it’s not too comfortable, either.

Building a deck not only gives you easier access and the feel of an inground pool, it also gives you a nice spot for sunbathing. You deck doesn’t have to be anything elaborate: a ten-by-ten foot deck will give you enough room for a few chairs, an umbrella, and a small cabinet for towels and supplies. To save yourself some work, you can buy a prefab deck like this. For a little more room, though, consider building a deck that completely encircles the pool.

Don’t forget the fence

Just like inground pools, above ground pools need safety enclosures around the perimeter to prevent unauthorized entry. Of course, if you’re building a railed deck all the way around the pool, just locking the entrance to the deck steps will be enough. Otherwise, you’ll need an enclosure around the pool. For an easy solution, try a simple chain link or wood fence and then train plants around it.

Try vertical gardening

One of the problems with choosing plants for around above ground swimming pools is that most plants are dwarfed and visually overwhelmed by the pool. The solution is a little vertical gardening.

Pick a few nice specimen trees and plant them pots to get them up off the ground. Choose tall growing plants like grass, hibiscus, or hollyhock. Just make sure the plants you choose won’t drop debris into your pool and can stand the occasional splash of chlorinated water.

Tall garden décor

Plants aren’t the only way you can jazz up the area around an above ground pool. The right garden decor can also help create an elegant, well landscaped look. Tall statuary is especially good for this. Try placing similar statues on the two far “corners” of the pool to frame the pool. Keep in mind, though, that the pool itself is a major landscape feature, so don’t overdo large, attention-grabbing garden decor like fountains.

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