3 Best Poolside Plants for Northeastern Pennsylvania Pools

Choosing the right plants for your pool area can make all the difference between a beautiful, low-maintenance oasis and a constant cleanup nightmare. For Northeastern Pennsylvania homeowners, the key is selecting plants that can handle the region’s climate while staying tidy around the water.

The best poolside plants are durable evergreens, salt and chlorine-tolerant species, and native varieties that won’t shed leaves or debris into your pool. With the right selection, you’ll enjoy lush greenery without the hassle of constant maintenance.

Top Poolside Plant Recommendations

1. Ornamental Grasses

Ornamental grasses bring texture and movement to your pool landscape while requiring minimal upkeep. Varieties like ‘Little Bluestem’ and ‘Switchgrass’ are perfect for Northeastern Pennsylvania pools because they’re drought-resistant once established and have a natural, arching form that softens hardscapes.

These grasses won’t drop large leaves into the water, and their root systems help prevent erosion around the pool deck. They also add visual interest throughout the seasons, from fresh green growth in spring to golden hues in fall.

2. False Cypress

If you want year-round structure without the mess, false cypress is an excellent choice. These low-maintenance evergreens come in various forms and sizes, making them versatile for different pool layouts. Unlike deciduous trees, they won’t shed leaves into your pool, and their dense foliage provides privacy without creating debris.

False cypress varieties are hardy enough to withstand Pennsylvania winters while maintaining their color and shape throughout the year.

3. Boxwood and Juniper

For a clean, polished look around your pool’s edge, compact shrubs like boxwood and juniper are ideal. These evergreen options stay neat and won’t drop leaves into the water. Their hardy nature means they can tolerate the occasional splash of chlorinated water without showing stress.

Boxwood works beautifully for formal designs, while juniper offers more variety in color and texture. Both options require minimal pruning to maintain their shape.

Maintenance Tips for Poolside Plants

The secret to a low-maintenance poolside landscape is choosing plants that naturally thrive in your area. Native and drought-resistant species require less watering, fertilizing, and overall attention once they’re established.

Here are some general care tips:

• Water wisely: Most recommended plants need regular watering only during their first growing season. After that, they can survive on natural rainfall.
• Mulch matters: Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch around plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Trim strategically: Prune plants before the pool season begins to minimize debris during peak swimming months.
• Monitor chlorine levels: While the recommended plants are chlorine-tolerant, avoid placing them where they’ll receive regular splashes of highly chlorinated water.

Create Your Perfect Poolside Paradise

Ready to turn your backyard into the retreat you’ve always dreamed of? The right plants are just one piece of creating an outdoor space where you’ll want to spend every summer day.

At Aqua Leisure Pools and Spas, we’ve been helping Northeastern Pennsylvania families soak in the memories for over 60 years. Visit our locations in Wilkes-Barre, Dickson City/Scranton, or Tannersville to explore our selection of inground fiberglass pools. Our experienced team will help you find the perfect pool model, along with all the accessories and cleaning materials you need.

We serve homeowners throughout Northeastern Pennsylvania, Allentown, and Doylestown, making the entire process easy, simple, and fun. After all, getting a pool should be exciting—it’s an investment you’ll enjoy for years to come.

Stop by today and let us help you design the backyard oasis you deserve!

Posted by Aqua Leisure Pools & Spas in Pools