Pool Landscaping: Plants and Design Ideas Around Your Pool
Concise landscaping guide for Florida pools (≤5 min read).
Design goals: curb appeal, privacy, low debris, and water efficiency.
Plant recommendations:
- Palms: Pygmy date, Queen palm for scale and low debris.
- Flowering tropicals: Hibiscus, bird of paradise for color.
- Native shrubs: Simpson’s stopper, cocoplum for screening and low maintenance.
- Groundcovers: Perennial peanut, sunshine mimosa to reduce erosion.
Layout tips:
- Layer plantings (tall back, medium middle, low front) for depth and privacy.
- Keep trees 10+ ft from pool edge to limit debris and root issues.
- Use permeable paving or gravel in runoff areas to reduce pooling.
Hardscape & irrigation:
- Use travertine or porcelain pavers for cool, slip-resistant surfaces.
- Install drip irrigation and smart controllers for water savings.
- Provide clear circulation paths and seating zones near shade.
Maintenance & longevity:
- Choose low-debris species and prune seasonally.
- Mulch beds to reduce watering and weeds.
- Schedule professional pruning and irrigation checks annually.
Want a plant list and layout for a specific pool size? Share dimensions and sun exposure and I’ll draft a plan.
Why Pool Landscaping Matters
Visual Enhancement
Landscaping creates the aesthetic framework for your pool.
Beauty and Appeal:
- Softens hardscape edges
- Adds color and texture
- Creates visual interest
- Enhances overall design
Design Continuity:
- Connects pool to home architecture
- Creates cohesive outdoor living space
- Complements pool style
- Unifies entire property
Functional Benefits
Beyond beauty, landscaping serves important practical purposes.
Privacy and Screening:
- Creates natural barriers
- Blocks unwanted views
- Defines outdoor spaces
- Provides seclusion
Shade and Comfort:
- Natural cooling through shade
- Protection from intense sun
- Comfortable lounging areas
- Extended outdoor enjoyment
Wind Protection:
- Reduces wind across pool
- Minimizes evaporation
- Creates calmer swimming conditions
- Improves comfort
Environmental Benefits
Thoughtful landscaping supports local ecosystem.
Habitat Creation:
- Attracts beneficial wildlife
- Supports pollinators
- Creates biodiversity
- Natural ecosystem
Microclimate:
- Natural cooling effect
- Humidity regulation
- Air quality improvement
- Temperature moderation
Florida-Friendly Pool Plants
Palm Trees
Palm trees are quintessential Florida pool landscaping.
Best Pool-Friendly Palms:
Queen Palm (Syagrus romanzoffiana):
- Moderate size (20-40 feet)
- Minimal debris drop
- Elegant, graceful appearance
- Excellent for poolside
Pygmy Date Palm (Phoenix roebelenii):
- Compact size (6-10 feet)
- Very low debris
- Perfect for smaller pools
- Tropical appearance
Foxtail Palm (Wodyetia bifurcata):
- Unique, attractive foliage
- Moderate size (20-30 feet)
- Low maintenance
- Great focal point
Areca Palm (Dypsis lutescens):
- Clumping growth habit
- Natural screening
- Tropical appearance
- Moderate debris
Planting Considerations:
- Plant at least 10 feet from pool edge
- Consider mature size
- Allow for root growth
- Professional installation recommended
Flowering Tropicals
Add vibrant color with flowering plants.
Excellent Choices:
Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis):
- Stunning tropical flowers
- Year-round blooms in South Florida
- Available in many colors
- Moderate maintenance
Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae):
- Dramatic, exotic flowers
- Architectural foliage
- Low debris
- Excellent focal point
Bougainvillea:
- Vibrant, abundant flowers
- Drought tolerant
- Can be trained as vine or shrub
- Spectacular color display
Plumbago (Plumbago auriculata):
- Beautiful blue flowers
- Long blooming season
- Attracts butterflies
- Low maintenance
Firebush (Hamelia patens):
- Native Florida plant
- Red-orange flowers
- Attracts hummingbirds
- Very low maintenance
Shrubs and Hedges
Create privacy and structure with shrubs.
Top Florida Choices:
Simpson’s Stopper (Eugenia axillaris):
- Native Florida shrub
- Dense, compact growth
- Excellent for privacy hedges
- Low maintenance
Florida Privet (Forestiera segregata):
- Native evergreen
- Tolerant of various conditions
- Good for screening
- Wildlife friendly
Silver Buttonwood (Conocarpus erectus):
- Salt tolerant (coastal areas)
- Dense foliage
- Wind resistant
- Natural screening
Cocoplum (Chrysobalanus icaco):
- Native Florida plant
- Edible fruit
- Salt tolerant
- Attractive foliage
Groundcovers
Cover ground and prevent erosion with low-growing plants.
Best Options:
Perennial Peanut (Arachis glabrata):
- Native groundcover
- Yellow flowers
- Drought tolerant
- Minimal maintenance
Sunshine Mimosa (Mimosa strigillosa):
- Native groundcover
- Pink powder-puff flowers
- Attracts butterflies
- Low maintenance
Beach Sunflower (Helianthus debilis):
- Native coastal plant
- Yellow flowers
- Salt tolerant
- Natural appearance
Ornamental Grasses
Add texture and movement with grasses.
Florida-Friendly Choices:
Fakahatchee Grass (Tripsacum dactyloides):
- Native Florida grass
- Drought tolerant
- Low maintenance
- Natural appearance
Muhly Grass (Muhlenbergia capillaris):
- Beautiful pink plumes in fall
- Native Florida plant
- Low maintenance
- Stunning seasonal display
Plants to Avoid Near Pools
High-Debris Plants
Avoid plants that drop excessive material into your pool.
Problematic Plants:
- Large-leaf trees (oak, maple)
- Fruit trees (citrus, mango)
- Plants with small flowers that blow easily
- Plants that shed bark or needles
Issues Caused:
- Constant pool cleaning
- Clogged skimmers and filters
- Chemical imbalance
- Increased maintenance
Invasive Species
Avoid plants that can become invasive problems.
Florida Invasive Plants to Avoid:
- Brazilian Pepper
- Australian Pine
- Melaleuca
- Air Potato
- Old World Climbing Fern
Problems:
- Aggressive spreading
- Displaces native plants
- Difficult to control
- Environmental damage
Aggressive Root Systems
Avoid plants with invasive roots.
Problematic Roots:
- Ficus trees
- Some bamboo species
- Willow trees
- Certain palm species
Damage Caused:
- Pool deck damage
- Plumbing issues
- Structural problems
- Expensive repairs
Landscaping Design Concepts
Tropical Paradise
Create a lush, resort-style atmosphere.
Key Elements:
- Dense, layered planting
- Multiple palm varieties
- Vibrant flowering plants
- Natural stone features
Plant Palette:
- Queen palms and foxtail palms
- Hibiscus and bougainvillea
- Bird of paradise
- Ferns and bromeliads
- Native groundcovers
Hardscape Elements:
- Natural stone pathways
- Tiki torches
- Thatch umbrellas
- Bamboo accents
Modern Minimalist
Clean, contemporary landscaping with minimal plants.
Key Elements:
- Limited plant palette
- Architectural specimens
- Clean lines
- Strategic placement
Plant Palette:
- Single specimen palms
- Minimal flowering plants
- Ornamental grasses
- Succulents and agaves
- Simple groundcovers
Hardscape Elements:
- Large format pavers
- Concrete planters
- Minimal ornamentation
- Geometric patterns
Native Florida Garden
Support local ecosystem with native plants.
Key Elements:
- Native plant focus
- Wildlife habitat creation
- Natural appearance
- Low maintenance
Plant Palette:
- Simpson’s stopper
- Firebush
- Coontie
- Beautyberry
- Native grasses
Benefits:
- Supports pollinators
- Low water requirements
- Disease resistant
- Natural adaptation
Mediterranean Style
Elegant, formal landscaping with structured design.
Key Elements:
- Symmetrical layouts
- Formal hedges
- Potted plants
- Stone elements
Plant Palette:
- Topiary shrubs
- Olive trees (in containers)
- Lavender and rosemary
- Citrus in pots
- Formal hedges
Hardscape Elements:
- Terracotta planters
- Stone pathways
- Formal water features
- Trellises and arbors
Hardscape Integration
Pathways and Walkways
Connect pool areas with beautiful pathways.
Material Options:
Natural Stone:
- Flagstone or limestone
- Natural appearance
- Cool to touch
- Premium look
Pavers:
- Various colors and patterns
- Durable and long-lasting
- Can match pool deck
- Versatile design
Gravel or Crushed Stone:
- Permeable surface
- Natural appearance
- Affordable option
- Good drainage
Design Considerations:
- Wide enough for comfortable walking (3-4 feet minimum)
- Non-slip surface when wet
- Proper drainage
- Connects all pool areas
Retaining Walls
Create elevation changes and define spaces.
Materials:
- Natural stone
- Concrete blocks with veneer
- Timber (for lower walls)
- Modular block systems
Functions:
- Create elevation changes
- Define different zones
- Provide seating opportunities
- Support planting areas
Seating Areas
Create comfortable lounging spaces.
Options:
- Built-in stone benches
- Retaining wall seating
- Paved seating areas
- Outdoor furniture zones
Considerations:
- Shade provision
- Views of pool
- Privacy from neighbors
- Easy access to pool
Privacy Solutions
Natural Privacy Screens
Create seclusion with plants.
Techniques:
Layered Planting:
- Tall plants in back
- Medium plants in middle
- Low plants in front
- Creates depth and density
Espaliered Trees:
- Trees trained against walls or trellises
- Flat profile saves space
- Creates living wall
- Formal appearance
Living Fences:
- Dense hedges on fence lines
- Climbing vines on trellises
- Bamboo screens (clumping varieties)
- Vertical gardens
Structural Privacy
Combine plants with structures.
Options:
Pergolas and Arbors:
- Shade and privacy
- Climbing plant support
- Architectural interest
- Outdoor room definition
Privacy Screens:
- Decorative panels
- Bamboo or reed screens
- Lattice panels
- Custom metalwork
Fencing with Plantings:
- Fence as base structure
- Plants soften appearance
- Combined privacy approach
- Enhanced aesthetics
Lighting Integration
Landscape Lighting
Extend outdoor enjoyment into evening hours.
Types:
Path Lights:
- Illuminate walkways
- Safety and beauty
- Low voltage options
- Solar or wired
Uplighting:
- Highlight specimen plants
- Dramatic shadows
- Architectural interest
- Focal point creation
Spotlights:
- Highlight specific features
- Adjustable beam spread
- Various wattage options
- Professional appearance
String Lights:
- Festive atmosphere
- Flexible placement
- Multiple styles available
- Affordable option
Design Principles:
- Light what you want to see
- Avoid light pollution
- Use warm color temperatures
- Layer lighting types
Maintenance Considerations
Plant Care
Proper maintenance ensures beautiful, healthy landscaping.
Regular Tasks:
- Watering according to plant needs
- Fertilizing seasonally
- Pruning and shaping
- Pest monitoring
Seasonal Considerations:
- Spring: Heavy pruning and fertilizing
- Summer: Increased watering and pest control
- Fall: Prepare for cooler weather
- Winter: Protect sensitive plants
Debris Management
Minimize pool maintenance through smart planting.
Strategies:
- Choose low-debris plants
- Regular pruning to reduce dropping
- Position plants away from prevailing winds
- Use windbreaks to reduce debris spread
Irrigation
Proper watering keeps plants healthy and conserves water.
Options:
Drip Irrigation:
- Efficient water delivery
- Minimal evaporation
- Targeted watering
- Easy to install
Sprinkler Systems:
- Good for larger areas
- Adjustable coverage
- Timer operation
- Professional installation recommended
Smart Controllers:
- Weather-based scheduling
- Rain sensors
- Remote monitoring
- Water conservation
Cost Considerations
Planting Costs
Budget Ranges:
Basic Landscaping:
- Simple plantings
- Standard plants
- DIY possible
- $2,000-5,000
Mid-Range Landscaping:
- More plant variety
- Some specimen plants
- Professional design
- $5,000-15,000
Premium Landscaping:
- Extensive plantings
- Mature specimens
- Professional installation
- $15,000-40,000+
Hardscape Costs
Pathways and Walkways:
- Basic gravel: $5-10 per sq ft
- Pavers: $10-20 per sq ft
- Natural stone: $20-40 per sq ft
Retaining Walls:
- Basic block: $20-40 per sq ft
- Natural stone: $40-80 per sq ft
- Premium materials: $80-150 per sq ft
Ongoing Maintenance
Annual Costs:
- Professional maintenance: $500-2,000
- Irrigation water: $200-600
- Fertilizers and supplies: $100-300
- **Total annual: $800-2,900
Why Choose Waasser for Pool Landscaping
With 22+ years of experience in South Florida pool construction:
✅ Complete Design - Pool and landscape designed together ✅ Plant Expertise - Knowledge of Florida-friendly species ✅ Integrated Approach - Seamless coordination of all elements ✅ Quality Installation - Professional planting and hardscaping ✅ Local Knowledge - Understand Florida’s unique climate ✅ Sustainable Practices - Environmentally responsible designs
Getting Started
Consultation Phase
- Vision Discussion: Understand your landscaping goals
- Site Assessment: Evaluate conditions and constraints
- Style Exploration: Review design options
- Budget Planning: Find solutions within your investment range
Design Phase
- Concept Design: Create landscape plan
- Plant Selection: Choose appropriate species
- Hardscape Design: Design pathways and structures
- Cost Estimate: Provide detailed pricing
Installation Phase
- Site Preparation: Prepare soil and areas
- Plant Installation: Professional planting
- Hardscape Installation: Build pathways and structures
- Final Touches: Mulch, irrigation, and lighting
Transform Your Pool Area
Beautiful landscaping elevates your pool from a simple swimming area to a complete outdoor paradise. Whether you prefer tropical lushness, modern minimalism, or native Florida beauty, the perfect landscape design awaits.
Benefits include:
- Enhanced beauty and curb appeal
- Increased privacy and comfort
- Extended outdoor enjoyment
- Support for local ecosystem
- Higher property value
Ready to Create Your Paradise?
Our team at Waasser has designed stunning pool landscapes for hundreds of Florida homeowners. We combine horticultural expertise with design creativity to create outdoor spaces that exceed expectations.
Schedule your free consultation today. We’ll:
- Assess your pool area and conditions
- Recommend perfect plants and design
- Provide detailed cost estimates
- Show you examples of beautiful landscapes
Don’t settle for bare concrete around your pool. Let us help you create the beautiful, functional, and sustainable outdoor oasis you’ve always dreamed of.
Pro Tip: Start with a mix of evergreen plants for year-round structure and flowering plants for seasonal color. This ensures your pool area always looks attractive while providing ongoing visual interest throughout the year.
