15 DIY Above Ground Pool Landscaping Ideas: Transform Your Backyard Oasis

Above-ground pools offer a fun way to cool off in summer. But plain pools can look out of place in your yard.

Adding landscaping around your pool makes it blend in better. You can create a beautiful pool area with some simple DIY projects.

These 15 ideas will help you transform your above-ground pool into an eye-catching backyard oasis without spending a lot of money.

1: Stone Pathway with Solar Lights

Create a stone pathway leading to your above-ground pool. Use flat stones or pavers for a smooth surface.

Space them evenly for easy walking. Add solar lights along the path edges.

These lights charge during the day and light up at night. They make the path safer and look nice too.

2: Tropical Plant Border

Create a lush tropical border around your above-ground pool. Pick colorful plants like hibiscus and bird of paradise.

Add tall palms and ferns for height and texture. Use mulch to keep the soil moist and finish the look.

This border will make your pool feel like a secluded island getaway.

3: Wooden Deck with Lounge Chairs

A wooden deck around your above-ground pool creates a stylish and functional space.

Add comfy lounge chairs with cushions for relaxing by the water.

Choose weather-resistant wood like cedar or treated pine for durability. Paint or stain the deck to match your home’s exterior.

4: Rock Garden Accents

Rock gardens can add natural beauty to your above-ground pool area.

You can create a small rock garden with stones of different sizes and colors.

Place larger rocks as focal points and use smaller pebbles to fill in gaps.

Add drought-resistant plants between rocks for pops of color.

5: Container Plants with Colorful Blooms

Add vibrant flowers to your above-ground pool area with colorful container plants.

Choose pots in various sizes and fill them with bright annuals like petunias, marigolds, or zinnias.

Place the containers around your pool deck or on nearby steps.

This easy DIY idea brings life and beauty to your pool space without much effort.

6: Privacy Wall with Climbing Vines

A privacy wall with climbing vines can create a lush, natural screen around your above-ground pool.

Plant fast-growing vines like clematis or jasmine at the base of a trellis or lattice panel.

Train the vines to grow upward as they mature. This green barrier will offer seclusion and add beauty to your pool area.

7: Bamboo Fencing

Bamboo fencing can give your above-ground pool area a tropical feel. It’s an easy DIY project that adds privacy and style.

You can install bamboo panels around your pool deck or use them to create a separate lounging area.

Bamboo is lightweight and comes in different colors and heights.

Choose a height that works for your space and desired level of privacy.

You can add lights or plants to make your bamboo fence even more appealing.

8: Outdoor String Lights

String lights can transform your above-ground pool area into a magical nighttime oasis.

Hang them around the pool deck or across the space above.

They create a cozy ambiance perfect for evening swims or poolside gatherings.

You can choose warm white lights for a soft glow or colorful options for a festive feel.

Solar-powered lights are a great energy-saving choice. Make sure to use outdoor-rated lights for safety.

9: Water Feature with Fountain

You can add a fountain to your above-ground pool for a touch of elegance.

A simple DIY option is using PVC pipes to create water sprayers.

For a fancier look, try a decorative statue that spouts water into the pool. Lights can make your fountain sparkle at night.

10: Raised Planter Boxes

Raised planter boxes are a great way to add greenery around your above-ground pool.

You can place them along the pool’s edge or on your deck.

Fill the boxes with colorful flowers or useful herbs. This adds beauty and a nice smell to your pool area.

11: Succulent Garden

You can create a unique look around your above-ground pool with a succulent garden.

Choose low-maintenance succulents in different shapes and sizes.

Plant them in rocky soil near the pool’s edge. Succulents add a desert-like feel to your pool area.

They need little water and can handle heat well. This makes them perfect for poolside landscaping.

12: Shade Sail Canopy

A shade sail canopy is a great way to add cool, stylish protection from the sun to your above-ground pool area.

You can install one using sturdy poles and a triangular or rectangular sail.

Angle the posts slightly away from the center for better stability.

Make sure to use strong anchors that can withstand wind.

13: Vertical Garden Wall

A vertical garden wall can make your above-ground pool area look amazing.

You can hang planters on a fence or build a frame for them.

Fill the planters with flowers, herbs, or small plants. This adds greenery without taking up space around your pool.

14: Gravel Surround with Stepping Stones

A gravel surround with stepping stones is a great way to spruce up your above-ground pool area.

Spread gravel around the pool’s edge for a clean look.

Add large, flat stones as steps leading to the pool entrance. This combo gives your pool a natural feel.

It’s also practical, helping with drainage and preventing mud.

You can choose gravel colors that match your yard’s style.

15: Hanging Planters

Hanging planters add a fun vertical element to your above-ground pool area.

You can attach them to your pool fence or deck railing. Fill them with colorful flowers or trailing vines to create a lush, tropical feel.

Choose lightweight, weather-resistant planters for easy maintenance.