Swimming Pool Transformations

So, you have a built-in pool, but something about it looks dull and uninviting. Landscaping around your pool can change the look of your back yard from a boring place be to a luxurious paradise. You can go for a natural theme, manicured beds of tulips, terraced sections of shrubs, or a lush tropical look. Water features, fire places, grills, furniture and personal touches can add to the inviting feel.

You don't have to spend a fortune to make your backyard pool area look great. It can be something as simple as spreading wildflower seeds in sectioned-off areas to give things a more natural feel. Large outdoor area rugs can turn a concrete expanse into a more closed in, private area. It doesn't only add a nice splash of color and texture, but also feels nice beneath the feet and makes lounging by the pool a more relaxing experience.

Designate areas around the pool deck for flowerbeds. You can plant rosemary to keep mosquitoes away. It also grows quickly and puts a pleasing fragrance in the air. If you don't like the smell of rosemary, use it on the outsides of your landscaped area. The smell is strong, but it doesn't travel far.

Plant a few interesting trees around the pool area to provide privacy. Evergreens that don't branch out far are good because they won't dump a lot of leaves and debris into the pool. Trees that stay small, grow slow and add color are ideal. A popular pool landscaping tree is the Japanese maple.

Go to your local nursery with a sample of your soil and ask which shrubs and plants will grow well around your pool. They will test your soil and determine if it is more acid or basic. After you know that, get them to show you around. Make notes of things that you like that fit with your theme. If you want a tropical theme, look for large leaves, hanging vines and bright blooms. For a more natural feel, opt for bushy shrubs and flowers that may be local natives.

Add splashes of color around the pool. When you are choosing your shrubs and plants, ask which ones bloom in spring, summer and fall. Choose a variety of plants and trees that bloom at different times to ensure that you don't have a beautiful landscape in April that is gone by the time you are ready to swim. The changing theme will keep things interesting as well.

Once you have the landscaping done, add some personal touches. Small statues, large rocks and decorative benches can fill in the gaps and draw attention to detail. Consider building a stone fireplace or adding an additional water feature. Add some comfy furniture and shade. You can set up soaker hoses that are barely visible to do the watering for you. Set them up on a programmable hose reel to ensure that your gardens stay lush even when you are not able to maintain them. Your pool will soon be the relaxing retreat that you dream of.