From Blue Blight to Backyard Bliss: The Ultimate Guide to Intex Pool Landscaping

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Unlocking Potential: Design Principles for Above-Ground Pools

Before you start digging or buying plants, it’s crucial to understand the design theory that can transform a simple pool area. Professional landscapers don't just place things randomly; they use established principles to create harmony and function. By applying these concepts, you can elevate your how to landscape around an Intex pool project from amateur to amazing.

The Power of Zoning: Creating 'Rooms' in Your Backyard

Think of your pool area not as one entity, but as a series of connected "rooms," each with a purpose. This landscape design principle, known as functional zoning, helps organize space and guide movement.

The Splash Zone: The immediate perimeter, focused on water-resistant materials and safety.

The Lounge Zone: A comfortable area for sunbathing and relaxing, set back slightly from the splash zone.

The Entry/Utility Zone: A clear path to the pool ladder and a cleverly hidden spot for the pump and filter system.

The Social Zone: A space for seating, dining, or conversation, often anchored by an outdoor rug or fire pit.

Material Harmony: Blending the Synthetic with the Natural

An Intex pool is inherently synthetic. The key is not to fight its nature but to complement it. This involves choosing materials that create a bridge between the bright vinyl, your home's exterior, and the natural elements of your yard. Use a mix of textures and colors: the smoothness of river rock against the roughness of a wooden deck, or the cool grey of concrete pavers warmed by lush green foliage. As landscape architect Eleanor Vance puts it, "The goal isn't to hide the pool, but to celebrate it. You do that by creating a setting so beautiful and cohesive that the pool feels like it truly belongs there. It becomes an integrated water feature, not just a plastic tub."

Layered Planting: The "Thriller, Filler, Spiller" Method

When it comes to best plants for around an above ground pool, container gardening is your best friend. It prevents invasive roots from damaging the pool liner and gives you complete control over soil and water. Use the "thriller, filler, spiller" concept for visually stunning arrangements:

Thrillers: Tall, dramatic plants that provide height and a focal point (e.g., ornamental grasses, canna lilies).

Fillers: Rounded, mid-sized plants that make the container look full (e.g., coleus, petunias, ferns).

Spillers: Trailing plants that cascade over the edge of the pot, softening the container's lines (e.g., sweet potato vine, creeping jenny).

Borrowed Scenery' (Shakkei): Looking Beyond the Perimeter

This Japanese garden design principle involves using elements outside your immediate project—like a distant tree, a neighbor's flowering hedge, or the sky itself—as part of your design. Frame these views. For example, use two tall planters to create a "window" that looks out onto a lovely part of your yard, effectively making your pool area feel larger and more connected to its surroundings.

The 8-Step Blueprint for Your Intex Pool Oasis

Ready to transform your space? Follow this comprehensive guide, breaking down the project into manageable, budget-friendly above ground pool ideas.

Step 1: Secure the Foundation

A level, stable, and attractive base is non-negotiable. It prevents pool shifting, liner stress, and creates a clean edge.

Detailed Explanation: An uneven base puts immense, uneven pressure on the pool's frame and liner, which can lead to catastrophic failure. A properly prepared foundation of sand or crushed stone also provides excellent drainage, preventing the area under the pool from becoming a muddy mess.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Mark the pool's circumference, adding at least 1-2 feet all around.

Remove the sod and 2-3 inches of topsoil from this area.

Use a long, straight 2x4 and a level to check for evenness. Scrape down high spots and fill in low spots with soil.

Tamp the entire area firmly with a hand tamper.

Add a 1-2 inch layer of paver base or sand. Rake it smooth and tamp it again until it is perfectly level and compact.

Budget Considerations:

DIY: Bags of sand (8 each) or paver base (10 each). A hand tamper rental is about 20/day. Total DIY cost: $50 - $150.
Professional: A pre-fabricated pool pad can cost 500 depending on the size.

Step 2: Build a Low-Profile Deck Surround

A deck, even a small one, instantly elevates the pool's appearance and provides a clean, comfortable entry point.

Detailed Explanation: A DIY intex pool deck and surround hides the metal frame, provides a level surface for chairs, and makes getting in and out of the pool much easier. A low-profile "floating" deck that isn't attached to the house is often a permit-free project.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Design a simple rectangular or L-shaped deck frame using pressure-treated 2x6 lumber.

Lay the frame on concrete deck blocks for support, ensuring it's level.

Install joists every 16 inches on-center within the frame.

Attach composite or pressure-treated deck boards, leaving a 1/4-inch gap for drainage.

Budget Considerations:

DIY: Using pressure-treated wood, a small 8'x8' deck might cost 700 in materials. Using free, heat-treated pallets can drastically reduce costs.
Professional: A professionally built small deck can cost 5,000+.

Step 3: Define Zones with Hardscaping

Use affordable hardscaping to manage mud, create paths, and add sophisticated texture.

Detailed Explanation: Grass around a pool quickly turns into a muddy pit. Replacing it with gravel or pavers creates a durable, clean, and visually appealing surface for lounge chairs and foot traffic.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

For a gravel patio, lay down landscape fabric to suppress weeds.

Install a flexible or metal edge border to contain the gravel.

Pour and spread a 3-4 inch layer of pea gravel or crushed granite.

Budget Considerations:

DIY: Pea gravel is one of the most cheap landscaping ideas for round pools, costing around 70 per cubic yard. Landscape fabric and edging are also inexpensive. A 10'x10' area could cost 250.
Professional: Paver installation is more expensive, averaging 30 per square foot.

Step 4: Layer Plants in Large Containers

Use planters to bring life, color, and structure to the space without risking the pool liner.

Detailed Explanation: Grouping pots of varying sizes creates a lush, layered look. Choose plants that can handle full sun and are low-litter (i.e., they don't drop a lot of flowers or leaves into the pool).

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Select large containers (at least 18-24 inches in diameter) for impact. Ensure they have drainage holes.

Fill the bottom third with empty plastic bottles or packing peanuts to reduce weight and soil cost. Cover with landscape fabric.

Fill with high-quality potting mix.

Arrange your "thriller, filler, spiller" plants. Good choices include Fountain Grass (thriller), Lantana (filler), and Sweet Potato Vine (spiller).

Budget Considerations:

DIY: Plastic planters are cheapest (50). Look for end-of-season sales. Starting plants from seed is the most budget-friendly option. Expect to spend 400 on pots and plants.

Step 5: Create Privacy and Enclosure

Privacy screens make the space feel more intimate and secluded.

Detailed Explanation: Intex pool privacy screen ideas don't have to be a solid, expensive fence. Strategic screens can block sightlines, buffer wind, and add a beautiful backdrop.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

For a simple DIY screen, sink 4x4 posts into planters filled with concrete.

Screw pre-made lattice panels or horizontal 1x4 boards between the posts.

Alternatively, use rolled bamboo or reed fencing attached to simple stakes.

Budget Considerations:

DIY: A DIY lattice screen (8 ft wide) can cost 150. Rolled bamboo fencing is even cheaper, around 60 per roll.
Professional: A standard vinyl or wood privacy fence costs 60 per linear foot installed.

Step 6: Camouflage the Pump and Filter

That noisy, unattractive pump system can be easily hidden.

Detailed Explanation: An above ground pool pump cover DIY project not only hides the equipment but also helps to muffle the sound, creating a more tranquil environment. Crucially, it must have adequate ventilation to prevent overheating.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Build a simple three-sided box out of weather-resistant cedar or pressure-treated plywood, large enough to fit over the equipment with 6 inches of clearance on all sides.

Create a hinged lid for easy access.

Drill large ventilation holes or create slatted sides to ensure airflow.

Paint or stain it to match your deck or house trim.

Budget Considerations:

DIY: Materials for a simple wooden box will cost 100.
Professional: Pre-made resin pump covers cost 300.

Step 7: Install Ambient Lighting

Lighting extends the use of your pool into the evening and adds a magical ambiance.

Detailed Explanation: A combination of path lighting for safety, string lights for atmosphere, and in-pool lights for fun can completely transform the space after dark.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Drape commercial-grade, outdoor-rated string lights from posts, your house, or a large tree.

Place solar-powered stake lights along pathways or around the deck perimeter.

Add battery-operated or solar-powered floating LED orbs to the pool itself.

Budget Considerations:

DIY: Solar options are extremely affordable. A good set of solar path lights can be found for 50, and string lights for 80.

Step 8: Accessorize Your Outdoor Room

The final touches tie everything together and add personality.

Detailed Explanation: Much like an indoor room, accessories make the space feel complete and inviting.

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Add an outdoor rug to the lounge area to define the space.

Use weather-resistant pillows and throws for comfort and color.

Install a stylish towel rack or hooks.

Place small side tables for drinks and books.

Budget Considerations:

DIY: Shop end-of-season sales or discount home goods stores. Expect to spend 300 to fully accessorize the space.

A Unique Perspective: The Modular & Movable Oasis

The greatest advantage of an Intex pool is its non-permanent nature. Your landscaping should reflect that. Instead of pouring a permanent concrete patio, opt for gravel or a floating deck. Instead of planting trees in the ground, use large containers. This "Modular Oasis" approach gives you incredible flexibility. You can rearrange the layout season to season, or if you move, you can potentially take many of the elements with you. As sustainable hardscaping specialist Marco Diaz notes, "Why build a thousand-dollar permanent structure around a three-hundred-dollar pool? The smart money is on high-impact, low-permanence solutions. Removable decks, gravel patios, and container gardens give you a million-dollar look without the long-term commitment or cost."

Case Study: The Subdivision Transformation

Before: The Johnson family had a 15-foot Intex pool in their 800 sq. ft. backyard. It sat on a slightly sloped, patchy lawn. The pump was exposed, and there was no dedicated seating, leading to muddy feet and a cluttered look.

The Plan: Create a defined 350 sq. ft. "pool zone" using the Modular Oasis concept, aiming for a total budget under $750.

The Execution:

Foundation: They leveled a 17-foot diameter circle, using $60 worth of sand.

Hardscaping: They created a 10'x10' lounge area with pea gravel, costing $180 for gravel, landscape fabric, and metal edging.

Decking: A small 8'x4' landing deck was built from free, heat-treated pallets and sealed for $40.

Planting & Privacy: Three large modern planters (90) to screen the view from the neighbor's yard.

Pump Cover & Lighting: A simple DIY pump cover cost 60) were added overhead.

After: For a total DIY cost of $650, the Johnsons transformed their backyard. They now have a clean, defined, and beautiful pool area with distinct zones for lounging and entry. It feels intentional and luxurious, making an Intex pool look built-in without any of the cost or permanence.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep grass and dirt out of my Intex pool?

The best method is to create a "no grass" buffer zone around the pool. A perimeter of at least 3-4 feet made of gravel, mulch, pavers, or decking will drastically reduce the amount of debris tracked into the water. Additionally, placing a small foot-washing basin or a durable outdoor mat at the base of the ladder encourages swimmers to rinse their feet before entering.

What are the best non-invasive plants to put near an above-ground pool?

Look for plants with non-aggressive root systems that are also low-litter. Excellent choices for containers include ornamental grasses (Fountain Grass, Zebra Grass), hardy succulents (Hens and Chicks), tropicals (Canna Lily, Elephant Ear), and many perennials (Hostas, Ferns, Daylilies). Avoid plants with invasive roots like bamboo (unless clumping variety in a strong pot) or trees like willows and silver maples.

Can I build a deck right up against my Intex pool?

It's generally not recommended to have a deck in direct contact with the vinyl liner. The pressure and potential rubbing can cause premature wear and tear. Best practice is to leave a small gap of 1-2 inches between the deck edge and the pool wall. This allows for slight movement of the pool and prevents abrasion.

How do I level the ground for an Intex pool on a slope?

For a slight slope (1-2 inches), you can dig down the high side and use the excavated soil to build up the low side, tamping it down firmly. For a more significant slope, it's better to excavate the high side to create a level, sunken area for the pool. This is called a "cut and fill" method, but you should only use the "cut" part for the pool base, as freshly filled earth can settle. Building a low retaining wall on the downhill side can help hold the level area.

What's the cheapest way to make my Intex pool look better?

The most impactful, low-cost solution is creating a wide, clean border with dark-colored mulch. For about 100, you can create a 4-foot mulch ring around the pool. This immediately gets rid of the muddy grass edge, provides a clean look, and makes the blue of the pool pop. Add a few solar lights for evening ambiance, and you've made a huge improvement for under $150.

How can I create privacy around my pool without building a permanent fence?

There are many excellent, non-permanent options. Use large planters with tall ornamental grasses or clumping bamboo. Install standalone privacy screens made from lattice or outdoor fabric. Use rolled bamboo or reed fencing attached to simple t-posts. Or, strategically place large, weather-resistant outdoor umbrellas to block sightlines.

Do I need a permit for my Intex pool landscaping project?

This varies widely by municipality. Generally, the pool itself (if considered temporary) may not need a permit, but landscaping features might. Decks over a certain height (often 30 inches) or size almost always require a permit. Fences usually have height and location restrictions. Always check with your local building department before starting any construction to avoid costly fines or having to tear down your work.

How do I protect my landscaping from chlorine splash?

Most chlorine splash-out evaporates before it can do major harm, but repeated dousing can damage sensitive plants. The best defense is distance. Keep planters and garden beds at least 3-4 feet away from the pool's edge. Additionally, choose chlorine-tolerant plants like those mentioned above. After a day of heavy splashing, a quick rinse of the foliage on nearby plants with a garden hose can help wash away any chemical residue.

Your Backyard Paradise Awaits

That humble Intex pool in your yard holds incredible potential. It’s a canvas waiting for your creativity. By applying basic design principles, following a structured plan, and embracing budget-friendly, modular solutions, you can completely redefine your outdoor space. You can move beyond a simple plastic pool on a lawn and create a true backyard destination—a place for relaxation, entertainment, and making memories.

Your next step is to go outside, look at your space, and dream a little. Which of these steps would make the biggest impact? Start with one project—perhaps the foundation or a simple privacy screen—and build from there. Your stunning backyard oasis is closer and more affordable than you think.