A swimming pool isn’t just an excellent place to cool off during the summer or get your daily dose of exercise; this water feature also adds beauty to the backyard. To enhance it further, many homeowners plant various flowers and shrubs around it. Before you do this though, it’s crucial to know which species are better than others. Here, the pool design team at Distinctive Swimming Pools in Washington Depot, CT, share the best and worst plants to put near your outdoor oasis. 

Best

Canna Lilies

Just because you live in New England doesn’t mean you can’t add some tropical flair to the swimming pool’s landscaping. Canna lilies are brightly colored and will make you feel as though you’re relaxing in a Hawaii oasis. They will thrive in both full and partial sunlight, making them optimal for areas that are in the shade for a few hours a day.

Ophelia Shrubs

If you’re seeking something a bit more substantial for privacy, plant a few Ophelia shrubs around the water feature. While professionals frequently advise against big bushes and trees because they tend to make a mess in the pool, this is one species that won’t cause that problem. It’s also an evergreen, so it will look beautiful all year.

Worst

Azaleas

These are beautiful flowering shrubs that are highly tolerant of the shade. Unfortunately, they don’t belong near a pool. They tend to drop many petals and leaves, which will make a huge mess. You’ll find yourself working overtime to keep the water clean.

Willow Trees

While willow trees are often found around bodies of water, you shouldn’t plant one near a swimming pool. They have large, fast-growing root systems that will interfere with the pool’s function. They might even crack the sides if the water feature is an in-ground model. 

Before you plant anything near the pool, ask the team at Distinctive Swimming Pools for the best options. They have been in business for over 75 years and offer repairs and maintenance for pools throughout Litchfield County. To learn more about their services, call (860) 868-3622 or visit their website.