Importance of Proper Landscaping
Landscaping is an important aspect of any swimming pool project. It can enhance the beauty, functionality, and value of any pool and property. However, landscaping can also have some effects on a pool that need to be considered and planned for.
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How Landscaping Effects a Pool
Here are 5 ways how landscaping can affect your swimming pool, and how to avoid or minimize potential problems.
1. Shade
Trees and shrubs are a great way to provide shade and privacy for a pool area, but when they grow too close to a pool there is an increased potential for them to drop leaves, flowers and branches into the pool. These droppings can lead to water circulation issues, require more chemicals to keep it clean and balanced and increase the chances of algae growth. To avoid this, choose trees and plants that will not grow too tall or dense and trim them regularly to prevent their debris from reaching the pool.
2. Debris
Leaves, flowers, fruits, seeds, and needles from trees and plants (organic matter) can fall into a pool and clog the filter, skimmer, and pump. This debris can also stain the pool surface and create a breeding ground for bacteria and algae. To prevent this, choose plants that are not too messy or prone to shedding and place them away from the pool edge. When possible, the outer circumference for small plants should be at least 5 feet from the edge of the pool, and the outer circumference of medium to large plants and trees should be at least 10 feet from the edge of the pool.
3. Roots
The roots of trees and plants can grow under or near your pool and damage your pool structure, plumbing, or electrical system. They can also cause soil erosion or shifting that can affect the stability of your pool. To avoid this, choose plants that have shallow or non-invasive root systems and plant them at a safe distance from your pool. The installation of a root barrier or a drainage system can help to protect your pool from root damage.
4. Pollen
Some plants produce pollen that can cause allergies or irritations for you and your guests. Pollen can also contaminate the pool water and make it cloudy as well as discolored. To prevent this, choose plants that are hypoallergenic or that have low-pollen and avoid flowering plants during their blooming season. When plants and trees are properly maintained, the amount of pollen entering the pool can be kept to a minimum.
5. Insects
Plants can attract insects that bite, sting, or that are just annoying. Using native plants can be easier to maintain and help to attract local insects that can be beneficial for any landscape. Native plants may also attract beneficial insects that tend to eat nectar or pollen during their lifecycle and produce young larvae that feed on predatory insects. Choosing the right plants have can be an invitation to these helpful allies and help to repel any unwanted guests.
Things to Consider
It is important to remember, when considering new landscaping, that even though the plants and trees may be small when planted, they will grow. Knowing what their full size (especially trees) could potentially be is essential for maintaining a clean and manageable swimming environment.
When choosing a landscape to compliment a pool and spa, the number one question as a pool owner to ask is; how much time would I like to spend maintaining my pool? This simple question and answer will determine two things: 1.) the amount of vegetation that is planted near and around the pool and 2.) the type of plants and trees that are planted near and around the pool.
Conclusion
Landscaping can have both a positive and a negative effect on a swimming pool, depending on the type, location, and maintenance of the plants you choose. By following these tips, a beautiful and harmonious pool environment can be created that is safe and enjoyable through each season and all year long.
*Photo by Vecteezy.com
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