PoolScaping
POOLS ARE A MAJOR PLAYER IN BACKYARD LANDSCAPING.
They have gotten bigger, with more features, such as lighting and built-in speakers, and are a critical part of creating a backyard oasis. An important aspect of any oasis is the plantings. Poolscaping, as it has been called, is the art of choosing plants and features that will enhance a pool and will also be sustainable.
There are a few key things to remember as you choose the plants to put around your pool. First, don’t choose anything that has dropping leaves or buds. You don’t need things flying into your pool. Next, choose plants that are easy to maintain, and can withstand the splashing that will come from your chlorinated or saltwater pool.
As you think about what to plant, consider the rest of your home. Choose plants that conform to the colors and style you have already established. Planting techniques and design rules are the same for a pool area as for the rest of your home.
Select plants that add color, texture, and scent to the area. Here are a few ideas to enhance your pool area.
If you have lots of hardscape or stepping stones, add a rock garden. Succulents are a great choice. These easy- care plants can withstand full sun and come in a variety of colors and textures. Creeping phlox and sedum can add color and interest, and poke out between spaces. Be careful not to use any that have thorns that can hurt an unsuspecting swimmer.
I love ornamental grasses. They come in many heights, colors, and textures, and are low maintenance. They can be used to add color and interest to a fence; or, if you use the tall grasses, they can actually provide privacy. These visually striking plants also add movement and interest even through the winter months.
If you are going for a tropical look, consider birds-of- paradise, palms, and hibiscus. Keep in mind that some of these may have to winter inside.
If you don’t want any grass, try ground covers. There are many varieties with colors and textures, and many are meant to be trampled! Try creeping Jenny, which grows super-fast and can even climb a trellis. Other ground covers will provide something soft to walk on and can add some beauty to a pathway.
If you love to entertain and swim in the evening, try planting a moon garden. These gardens are filled with plants that only bloom at night and provide a glowing effect to your garden. Moon plants often have a beautiful fragrance which adds another layer of interest to your party.
If you have no available ground, use pots! There are hundreds of pots in all colors, shapes, and sizes that will add color and wonderful design to your pool area. Fill these pots with plants that add color and scent. Almost anything will grow in a pot, so follow the design rule of adding a thriller, a spiller, and a filler!
Design your pool area to fit your lifestyle. Use colors and textures that blend with your pool and keep it low maintenance. You want to be swimming, not gardening. When it’s all done, put on your suit, slather on some sunscreen and float on a tube as you look at the peaceful, beautiful oasis you created.
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Jackie can be seen in her native environment every Saturday on WGRZ-TV, Buffalo on Daybreak Saturday. For more of her work visit www.jackiealbarella.com