Adding an above ground pool to your backyard can transform it into a summer paradise, but deciding what to put around it can be a challenge. You want your pool area to look great, be easy to maintain, and create a relaxing atmosphere. At Loomis Pools, based in New Berlin, WI, we know how to make above ground pools and backyards shine. In this blog, we’ll share five exciting landscaping ideas to enhance your above ground pool in 2024. Get ready to take your backyard oasis to the next level!

1. Create a Border with Low-Maintenance Landscaping

One of the most common questions we get at Loomis Pools is, "What’s the best thing to put around an above ground pool?" For 2024, we’re all about low-maintenance options that look fantastic year-round. Using rocks, mulch, or even artificial turf around your pool can help create a clean border while keeping things simple.

• River Rock or Gravel: These can be placed around your pool to create a sleek, polished look. The best part? Rocks require almost no maintenance and help with drainage, which is always a plus. Plus, you can choose different colors and sizes of river rocks to add a bit of personality to your pool area.
• Mulch Beds: Opt for mulch if you want a natural, warm look. It’s great for holding moisture and preventing weeds. You can also choose different types of mulch, such as cedar or pine, to add varying shades of color around your pool.
• Artificial Turf: For an effortlessly green look without the upkeep, artificial turf is an excellent choice. It’s durable, looks lush, and you don’t need to worry about mowing it. Artificial turf is also pet-friendly, making it a great option for families with furry friends who like to join in on poolside fun.

With these simple pool border ideas, you can keep your poolside area looking neat and tidy without putting in hours of work each week. Plus, these materials can help create a safer environment by reducing mud and preventing slippery spots around the pool.

2. Add Poolside Plants for a Tropical Vibe

Want to create an inviting, lush atmosphere around your above ground pool? Adding poolside plants is a great way to do it! We love adding greenery that’s both visually stunning and easy to care for. But remember, not all plants are suited for poolside areas—you’ll want varieties that can handle the splash of chlorinated water.

Best Low-Maintenance Poolside Plants for 2024

• Hostas: These leafy plants thrive in Wisconsin and provide great ground coverage. They come in a variety of shades, from vibrant green to variegated white and green, adding visual interest to your landscaping.
• Ornamental Grasses: Grasses like fountain grass or feather reed grass are durable, low-maintenance, and add beautiful texture to your landscape. They also sway gently in the breeze, creating a calming, serene atmosphere around your pool.
• Lavender: Not only does lavender look beautiful, but it also adds a calming fragrance—perfect for poolside relaxation. Plus, lavender is known for repelling mosquitoes, which makes it an ideal choice for keeping those summer pests at bay.
• Yucca Plants: Yucca plants are another great choice for poolside landscaping. They’re hardy, drought-resistant, and add a touch of the desert to your tropical vibe.

Mixing these plants around your above ground pool can create a private, resort-like feeling without much hassle. Just be sure to keep them spaced far enough away from the pool to avoid leaves or debris in the water. You can also use potted plants to add versatility—easily rearrange them for special events or to change the look of your pool area.

3. Install a Decorative Retaining Wall

For those wanting to step up their backyard game, adding a decorative retaining wall around part of your above ground pool is a great option. Not only does it add an attractive visual element, but it can also help create structure and provide extra seating space.

At Loomis Pools, we recommend incorporating stone or brick retaining walls. These materials are both durable and visually appealing—perfect for that sophisticated backyard vibe in New Berlin. You can even use the retaining wall as a planting bed for some low-maintenance landscaping or colorful annuals to add a pop of color.

Retaining walls can also be multi-functional. For example, you could add built-in seating or create a tiered garden effect, which adds depth and visual interest to your pool area. Imagine sitting on a built-in bench with a cold drink, watching the kids splash around in the pool—it’s the perfect way to enjoy a summer afternoon.

4. Incorporate a Patio Area with Pavers

If you’re looking for ideas that can double as functional and beautiful, incorporating a patio area with pavers around your above ground pool is a win-win. Pavers are incredibly versatile—you can use them to create a walkway to your pool or a full lounging area where you can place chairs and a small table.

Why Pavers Are Perfect for 2024

• Durability: Pavers are long-lasting and can handle Wisconsin’s harsh weather, from snowy winters to hot summer days. They’re resistant to cracking and shifting, which means your patio area will look great for years to come.
• Design Flexibility: You can mix and match colors, shapes, and sizes to create a pattern that’s uniquely yours. Whether you prefer a classic brick look or something more modern, pavers give you the creative freedom to design a patio that complements your style.
• Low Maintenance: Unlike wood, pavers don’t need staining or sealing, making them a great low-maintenance choice. If one paver gets damaged, you can easily replace it without disturbing the rest of the patio, making it a practical option for busy homeowners.

With a paver patio area, you’re creating a practical space for relaxing by your pool—it’s all about making the most out of your backyard retreat. You can add lounge chairs, an outdoor dining set, or even a fire pit for those cool summer evenings. A patio area makes your pool more accessible and creates a seamless transition between the pool and the rest of your outdoor space.

5. Add String Lights for Evening Ambiance

Who says pool fun should only happen during the day? Adding some simple string lights around your above ground pool can make your backyard feel magical once the sun goes down. Whether you’re hosting friends for an evening swim or just relaxing after work, good lighting is key to setting the right mood.

Tips for String Lighting in 2024

• Hang Lights Along the Pool Border: Use poles or nearby structures to hang lights along the perimeter of the pool area, giving it a warm and inviting glow. You can even use waterproof LED strip lights along the bottom edge of your pool for a modern look that will make your pool stand out.
• Solar Lights: Solar string lights are popular in 2024 for being eco-friendly. Plus, you don’t have to worry about finding an outlet! They charge during the day and automatically turn on at dusk, providing a hassle-free lighting solution.
• Combine with Lanterns: For an extra cozy touch, mix string lights with a few solar lanterns placed along the ground. Lanterns provide soft, ambient lighting and can be moved around to suit your needs. They’re perfect for creating a relaxing atmosphere while adding a decorative element to your pool area.
• Tiki Torches: If you’re looking for something a little different, consider adding tiki torches. They provide light, and some even come with citronella to help keep bugs away—making them both functional and fun.

The beauty of adding lights is that they’re affordable and easy to install while giving your pool space an instant upgrade. It’s the perfect way to keep the fun going even after the sun sets, creating lasting memories with family and friends.

Making Your Pool Area Shine in 2024

At Loomis Pools, we believe every pool—above ground or inground—deserves to be surrounded by a beautiful, functional landscape. By incorporating these five landscaping ideas around your above ground pool, you can create a stunning backyard retreat that’s low-maintenance and enjoyable year-round.

Whether you’re looking for pool border ideas, ways to add greenery, or planning a full patio installation, our team at Loomis Pools in New Berlin, WI, is here to help make your backyard dreams come true. We understand that each homeowner has unique needs, and we’re committed to creating outdoor spaces that reflect your personal style and enhance your pool experience.

Ready to Transform Your Pool Space?

If you’re ready to enhance your above ground pool with one of these landscaping ideas, give Loomis Pools a call today! Our team is excited to work with you and create the perfect outdoor space for your family to enjoy for years to come. Let us help you turn your backyard into a relaxing, inviting space where you can make the most out of every summer day.