When planning a custom pool, the landscaping that surrounds it deserves real thought. It plays a vital role in your backyard’s overall design and function, creating an attractive environment while also adding safety and security for your family and guests. Here is why it matters and how to plan it.

Options for pool landscaping

The possibilities are nearly endless, from trees and shrubs to rocks and plants. Trees and shrubs provide shade, plants and flowers add a pop of color and texture, and rocks and stones create a more natural look. It helps to scale the landscaping to your pool: a large pool can carry larger features like trees and shrubs for a natural feel, while a smaller pool suits smaller plants, flowers, and rocks for a more intimate atmosphere.

Safety, security, and privacy

Beyond aesthetics, landscaping adds real safety. Shrubs, trees, and other features can keep pool users away from the edge and form a barrier between the pool and your home, reducing the risk of accidental falls. Landscaping also creates privacy, which is especially valuable if you live in a densely populated area or near a busy road.

Managing heat and wind in the desert

In Southern Arizona, landscaping is also a climate tool. Trees and shade structures cool the deck and extend the hours you can spend outside, while planting can buffer prevailing wind that would otherwise chill the pool or blow debris across it.

Unique considerations for Arizona pools

When choosing plants, consider upkeep and how well they suit the region, keeping water use in mind. A xeriscape of mostly rocks and drought-resistant plants is often beneficial, since it helps offset the water use of your pool, saves time and money, and looks great year-round without a complicated irrigation system. If you prefer a more tropical design, that is possible too, since many palms and colorful flowers thrive here under the right conditions. Keep messy, high-litter, or aggressive-rooted plants back from the water so the skimmer stays clear.

Design the landscaping with the pool

Landscaping works best when planned alongside the pool, so grading, planting, irrigation, and sightlines all fit together. No matter the size or shape of your pool, Pools by Design can help you create an outdoor oasis with carefully chosen landscaping across Tucson and Southern Arizona.