Harmful Plants to Avoid Surrounding Your Pool Area:
Relax by the Pool, But Wisely
Transform your backyard pool into a paradise with lush greenery and vibrant colors. Tropical foliage and flowers make the perfect scenery, offering both shade and serenity. Yet, not all plants are suitable for a poolside hangout. Here's what you should avoid growing near your pool and why.
Shun Problematic Trees
Oak trees, with their heavy shade, can interfere with your poolside ambiance. They drop acorns in spring and leaves in fall, creating a mess that you'll constantly have to deal with. Plus, sweet gum's spiky seed balls are no fun if they find their way into your pool. Maples are similarly messy, with winged seeds, while silver maples can damage concrete with their roots. Sycamores and weeping willows, other invasive root offenders, should also be kept at bay.
Avoid Tempting Fruit Trees
Fruit trees may seem inviting, but they're best left far from your pool. In spring, they drop petals that create a mess, and mulberries can stain your pool deck. Fruits rotting in the heat don't make for a pleasant sight either. What's more, fruit trees attract a swarm of bees, which can be a safety concern near water.
Say No to Crepe Myrtle
Crepe myrtle trees shed flowers as soon as they fade, typically in the middle of swimming season. If you're looking for a flowering tree near your pool, choose one that ceases blooming before you open it for the summer.
Be Careful with Hollies
Holly bushes are a no-no near a pool, especially the spiky varieties. Save the soft-leaved holly for another part of your garden.
Steer Clear of Bamboo
Bamboo may look great as a screen, but the running types can crack concrete with their invasive roots. Opt for a container-bound bamboo to enjoy its beauty without the damage.
Watch Out for Cacti and Succulents
Cacti and most succulents may fit the heat, but their spines can be a hazard around the pool. Keep these plants where they won't be constantly splashed or underfoot.
Keep Bougainvillea at a Distance
Bougainvillea's constant shedding of flowers can make a mess in your pool. Opt for a safe distance where the flowers won't fall into the water.
Roses Aren't Poolside Friends
Landscape roses add color and charm, but their thorns can pose a risk near a pool. Avoid planting them close to the pool deck where swimmers may come into contact with them.
When landscaping around your pool, consider low-maintenance and non-invasive plants. Ensure good drainage to prevent water buildup, and prioritize safety to enjoy your poolside oasis worry-free.
Southern Living offers numerous gardening ideas for a stunning backyard paradise. However, avoid planting oak, sweet gum, maple, sycamore, weeping willow, and fruit trees near your pool, as they can create a mess, interfere with your poolside ambiance, or even damage it. Also, consider keeping crepe myrtle, holly bushes, bamboo, cacti, succulents, Bougainvillea, and roses at a distance from your pool for safety and ease of maintenance. Opt for low-maintenance and non-invasive outdoor plants to enjoy your poolside oasis worry-free, while exploring home-and-garden lifestyle options to complement your poolside living.
