As the weather warms up in the coming months, you and your family will be spending more time out by the pool. By working with a quality landscaping company and following best practices, you can beautify your outdoor space to create a more enjoyable experience. Here are some do’s and don’ts when designing the landscape around your pool.

Do:

Use your gardening to hide pool fencing.

Pool fencing doesn’t always add beauty to a backyard. Brighten it up by lining the barrier with lush “elephant ear” plants in pots, which, when fully grown, should reach the top. You can also choose vining plants, such as bougainvillea, to curl around the metal bars.

Choose low-maintenance plants.

Your pool likely takes up a lot of space in your backyard, which may leave little room to get on your hands and knees to tend the plants. Choose low-maintenance options that won’t require a lot of attention, such as colorful astilbe flowers or green hosta plant, which can thrive in the shade.

Don't:

Choose plants with sharp thorns.

Avoid choosing sharp plants that could scratch your loved ones, such as thorny rose bushes or the rough needles of the Dwarf Alberta spruce. Instead aim for plants with soft, fuzzy leaves, like the aptly-named “Lamb's Ears” bush, which sprouts purple flowers.

Select plants that attract bees.

Bees can sting your guests, putting those who are allergic in serious danger. To ensure everyone has a good time, avoid planting lavender and goldenrods; these attract bees. To keep these buzzing pests at a distance, plant peppermint by the pool—they can’t stand the scent.

When you need help with your pool landscaping, contact DRS Lawn & Landscape of Morris County, NJ. They’ve been improving and maintaining properties since 1991, offering a wide range of design and lawn care services. To set up a landscaping appointment, call them at (908) 879-0600. Visit their website to learn more.