Best Plants for Landscaping Around Commercial Pools

The Best Plants for Landscaping Around Commercial Athletic Pools and Spas

Creating a visually appealing landscape around commercial pools and spas doesn’t just enhance aesthetics—it can also increase visitor comfort and safety. If you’re managing a facility in Virginia, Washington DC, or Maryland, finding the perfect plants for high-traffic areas requires careful consideration. You’ll need species that are low-maintenance, resistant to drought, non-toxic, and capable of thriving in warm, humid environments. Design a lush, inviting, and resilient poolside space with these tips.

Why Landscaping Matters for Commercial Pools

Landscaping around commercial pools is more than just decoration. Properly selected plants can:

• Improve the overall aesthetic with greenery that complements the hardscaping of the pool area.
• Provide privacy and natural shade, elevating the customer experience.
• Withstand exposure to pool chemicals and heavy foot traffic, reducing maintenance demands.

Combining the right plants with smart design choices creates a lush yet durable landscape, creating a welcoming space for visitors.

The Best Plants for Poolside Landscaping

1. Drought-Resistant Greenery

Pools and spas naturally have humid surroundings, but drought-resistant plants are ideal for managing shifts in moisture. Consider these hardy options:

• Ornamental Grasses (e.g., Fountain Grass, Pampas Grass): These resilient plants add softness and movement to your space while staying low-maintenance.
• Agave and Yucca Plants: Their architectural forms create striking visuals, and they thrive even with minimal watering.

2. Tropical Beauties

Tropical plants lend a lush, exotic feel to commercial pools and spas while tolerating warm and humid conditions. Great choices include:

• Banana Plants: These large-leafed plants provide both shade and a tropical vibe.
• Canna Lilies: Brightly colored blooms make this ideal for adding vibrant accents.

3. Nontoxic Shrubs for Privacy

Privacy is vital for commercial spaces, especially near pools and spas. Nontoxic, dense shrubs that also improve safety make excellent choices:

• Hibiscus Shrubs: Known for their eye-catching blooms, hibiscus provides a touch of elegance and creates natural barriers.
• False Cypress: These evergreen shrubs bring year-round beauty and privacy while requiring minimal upkeep.

4. Flowering Perennials

Perennials can add a touch of color and continuity without the hassle of frequent replanting. Some great options include:

• Daylilies: Easy to grow and highly durable, these plants flourish in sunny poolside conditions.
• Sedum: With its drought tolerance and vibrant flowers, sedum is a perfect choice for pool landscaping.

5. Low-Mess Options for High-Traffic Areas

Keeping poolside areas tidy is important in busy commercial settings. Opt for plants that minimize shedding leaves, flowers, or fruit:

• Boxwood Shrubs: These are neat, compact bushes that don’t scatter debris—a win for maintenance teams!
• Palm Trees: Smaller palms like Mediterranean Fan Palms add a clean, tropical look without mess.

Best Practices for Landscaping Around Commercial Pools

• Position Plants Strategically: Keep greenery away from the pool edge to minimize debris in the water and avoid potential hazards.
• Consider Hardiness: Focus on plants that thrive in USDA Hardiness Zones 6B to 7A, which cover much of Virginia, DC, and Maryland.
• Use Mulch and Irrigation: Mulching around the plants helps conserve moisture, while drip irrigation helps with consistent watering without waste.

Transform Your Pool Area with Professional Help

Landscaping around commercial pools requires careful plant selection for durability and aesthetic appeal in high-traffic areas. With over 30 years of experience, Millennium Pools & Spas provides expert pool service and renovation in Virginia, Washington DC, and Maryland.

Contact us today for expert advice, a free estimate, or help with your project at (703) 939-5062 to get started!