Picture this: it’s a hot Saturday afternoon, your above ground pool is finally set up, and the water looks inviting. But then you step back and notice the rest of the yard — patchy grass, exposed pool legs, and that awkward gap between the pool wall and the ground. It doesn’t quite feel like the backyard oasis you imagined.
You’re not alone. Thousands of homeowners install an above ground pool every year because it’s affordable and quick to set up, but landscaping around it often gets pushed to “later.” The good news? You don’t need a big budget to make your pool area look like it belongs in a magazine.
This guide walks you through practical, wallet-friendly landscaping ideas for above ground pools — from ground cover and decking alternatives to plants, lighting, and privacy solutions. Everything here is doable on a modest budget, and most projects can be tackled over a weekend or two.
Why Landscaping Around Your Above Ground Pool Matters
Landscaping isn’t just about looks — though that’s a big part of it. A well-thought-out pool area also solves practical problems.
Here’s what good landscaping does for your pool space:
- Reduces mud and mess — Bare dirt around a pool turns into mud after splashes, rain, or pool maintenance, and that mud ends up tracked into your house.
- Improves safety — Uneven ground, exposed legs, and slippery grass near the pool ladder are common tripping hazards.
- Controls weeds and pests — Untreated ground around a pool becomes a magnet for weeds, ants, and mosquitoes.
- Boosts curb appeal and value — According to the National Association of Realtors, outdoor improvements consistently rank among the projects that bring homeowners the most satisfaction relative to cost.
- Creates a relaxing vibe — A landscaped pool area feels like an extension of your living space rather than an afterthought.
The key word here is “cheap” — and that’s entirely possible with some planning and a bit of elbow grease.
Planning Your Budget-Friendly Pool Landscape
Before you buy a single bag of mulch, take 20 minutes to plan. This step alone can save you from costly mistakes.
Measure Your Pool Area First
Walk around your pool and measure the perimeter, plus how much space you have on each side. Most above ground pools need at least 3 to 4 feet of clearance for maintenance access, according to general guidance from pool manufacturers like Intex.
Set a Realistic Budget Range
A small-scale landscaping refresh — think mulch, a few plants, and some edging — can often be done for under $200 to $300. Larger projects like decking or pavers will cost more but can still be scaled down using budget materials.
Prioritize Function Over Decoration
Start with the basics:
- Ground cover around the base (mulch, gravel, or pavers)
- A safe walking surface near the ladder/steps
- Basic privacy or shade if needed
- Decorative touches (plants, lights, decor) last
This order ensures you solve the practical issues first, then layer in beauty.
Cheap Ground Cover Ideas for Around the Pool Base
The area directly around your pool’s base is the most important to address first. This is where splashed water collects, where you’ll walk most often, and where weeds love to grow.
Mulch
Mulch is one of the cheapest and most effective options. A few benefits:
- Suppresses weeds
- Retains moisture for nearby plants
- Adds a finished, natural look
- Easy to refresh annually
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency notes that organic mulch also helps with water retention in garden beds, which is useful if you’re planting around the pool too.
Tip: Avoid placing mulch directly against the pool liner or metal frame, as constant moisture contact can cause rust or liner damage over time.
Pea Gravel or Crushed Stone
Pea gravel is another low-cost option that drains well and doesn’t break down like mulch. It’s particularly good in areas that get splashed often since it won’t turn into mud.
Synthetic Turf Scraps or Remnants
Many flooring and landscaping suppliers sell remnant pieces of artificial turf at a steep discount. A small patch around the pool base can look neat without the cost of a full lawn installation.
Rubber Mulch
Rubber mulch (often made from recycled tires) is more durable than wood mulch and doesn’t need replacing as often, making it cost-effective over time even if the upfront price is slightly higher.
| Ground Cover Option | Approx. Cost | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wood Mulch | Low | Cheap, natural look | Needs annual refresh |
| Pea Gravel | Low-Medium | Durable, good drainage | Can shift/scatter |
| Rubber Mulch | Medium | Long-lasting | Higher upfront cost |
| Turf Remnants | Low | Soft, neat | Limited sizes available |
DIY Pavers and Walkways on a Budget
A walkway leading to your pool steps does double duty — it looks intentional and prevents that worn dirt path that forms naturally from foot traffic.
Concrete Stepping Pavers
Basic concrete pavers are widely available at home improvement stores and are one of the most affordable hardscaping materials. You can space them out with gravel or grass in between to reduce the number needed.
Reclaimed Brick or Pavers
Check local classifieds, salvage yards, or community marketplace groups for reclaimed brick. People often give away leftover pavers from old projects for free or very cheap.
DIY Concrete Stamping
If you’re comfortable with a bit of DIY, you can pour your own concrete pads using simple molds, which is significantly cheaper than buying pre-made pavers in bulk.
Practical Tip: Lay pavers on a bed of sand or gravel, not directly on dirt, for better stability and drainage — this is standard guidance from most DIY landscaping resources.
Affordable Decking Alternatives for Above Ground Pools
A full wraparound deck looks fantastic but can cost thousands. Luckily, there are scaled-down alternatives that still give you that “built-in” look.
Small Entry Platform
Instead of decking the entire pool, build a small 4×4 or 6×6 foot platform just at the entry point. This gives you a stable, comfortable spot to sit and dry off without the cost of full decking.
Pallet Wood Decking
Reclaimed wooden pallets, when sanded and sealed properly, can be repurposed into small deck sections or seating platforms. Many businesses give away pallets for free — just be sure to check that they’re heat-treated (marked “HT”) rather than chemically treated, as recommended by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s pallet guidelines.
Composite Decking Tiles
Interlocking deck tiles (often made from composite or wood-plastic material) are a popular budget option because they snap together without permanent installation — great for renters too.
Gravel or Paver “Patio” Instead of Deck
Sometimes a simple gravel patio area with outdoor furniture achieves a similar relaxing effect to a deck at a fraction of the cost.
Budget-Friendly Plants and Greenery for Pool Areas
Plants soften the hard lines of a pool structure and make the space feel more like a garden retreat. The trick is choosing plants that are cheap, low-maintenance, and pool-safe.
Choose Pool-Friendly Plants
Look for plants that:
- Don’t drop a lot of leaves or seeds (to reduce pool cleaning)
- Tolerate occasional splashes of chlorinated water
- Are low-maintenance and drought-tolerant
According to general guidance from the University of Florida IFAS Extension, ornamental grasses, succulents, and many native perennials tend to handle pool-adjacent conditions well because they’re naturally hardy.
Cheap Plant Sources
- Seed starting: Growing flowers and herbs from seed is dramatically cheaper than buying mature plants.
- Plant divisions: Many perennials (like daylilies, hostas, or ornamental grasses) can be divided from a neighbor’s existing garden.
- End-of-season sales: Garden centers often discount plants heavily at the end of summer.
- Community plant swaps: Local gardening groups on social media frequently host free plant exchanges.
Container Gardening Around the Pool
Pots and planters are ideal because:
- They can be moved if you need access to the pool frame
- They add height and structure without permanent landscaping
- Cheap containers can be made from repurposed buckets, crates, or tires
Privacy Plants on a Budget
If you want some greenery for privacy without spending on a full hedge, consider:
- Fast-growing ornamental grasses in large pots
- Bamboo planted in containers (to control spreading)
- Climbing vines on a simple trellis made from cheap garden stakes
Creative Privacy Solutions Without Breaking the Bank
Privacy is often a top concern for above ground pool owners, especially in suburban yards with close neighbors.
Lattice Panels
Pre-made lattice panels are inexpensive and can be attached to simple wooden posts. Add a climbing vine like clematis or morning glory for a natural touch over time.
Bamboo Screening Rolls
Bamboo or reed fencing rolls are sold by the foot and can be attached to an existing fence or simple frame for an affordable tropical-style privacy barrier.
Repurposed Pallets as Fencing
Similar to decking, wooden pallets can be stood upright and connected to form a rustic privacy fence — just sand rough edges and seal with weatherproof paint or stain.
Strategic Furniture Placement
Sometimes the cheapest “privacy fence” is simply repositioning a shed, storage box, or tall planter to block a direct sightline from a neighbor’s window.
Lighting Ideas to Make Your Pool Area Pop at Night
Lighting transforms a backyard pool area after dark, and most lighting upgrades are surprisingly affordable.
Solar String Lights
Solar-powered string lights are inexpensive, require no wiring, and recharge during the day. Hang them along a fence line, deck railing, or between two posts near the pool.
Solar Pathway Lights
Stake-style solar lights placed along your walkway or planting beds add both safety and ambiance without any electrical work.
Floating Pool Lights
Solar floating lights designed for pools create a relaxing glow on the water’s surface and are widely available at affordable prices from most retailers.
Mason Jar Lanterns
A classic DIY project: place battery-operated tea lights or fairy lights inside mason jars and hang them around the pool perimeter for a cozy, rustic look.
Safety Note: Always use battery-operated or solar lighting near pool water rather than running extension cords, in line with general electrical safety guidance from the Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Hiding the Pool Frame and Legs Cheaply
One of the most common complaints about above ground pools is the visible metal frame and support legs. Here’s how to camouflage them affordably.
Skirting Kits
Many pool brands sell affordable skirting kits made of fabric or vinyl that wrap around the base of the pool, hiding the legs entirely. Brands like Intex and Bestway often offer compatible accessories.
Decorative Fabric or Shower Curtains
A budget DIY trick is using outdoor-rated fabric, tension rods, or even repurposed shower curtains attached around the frame’s perimeter.
Strategic Planting
Planting low shrubs, ornamental grasses, or potted flowers directly in front of the legs (with enough clearance for airflow and access) is one of the simplest and cheapest fixes.
Painted Plywood Panels
Cutting simple plywood panels to size and painting them to match your pool or house color creates a clean, finished skirting look for minimal cost.
DIY Furniture and Seating Areas
You don’t need a full patio set to create a comfortable lounging spot.
Pallet Furniture
Pallets can be turned into benches, loungers, or small side tables with minimal tools — just sand, stack, and secure with screws.
Cinder Block Seating
Stacked cinder blocks topped with wood planks make sturdy, weatherproof bench seating that costs very little.
Repurposed Tires as Ottomans
Old tires, painted and topped with a round wooden seat and outdoor cushion, can serve as cheap, durable poolside ottomans.
Thrifted and Secondhand Furniture
Check local thrift stores, garage sales, and online marketplaces for outdoor furniture — a coat of weatherproof paint can make old pieces look brand new.
Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Landscaping Looking Great
Cheap landscaping stays looking good with a little routine upkeep.
Seasonal Tasks
- Spring: Refresh mulch, check for winter damage to plants or pavers
- Summer: Trim plants away from the pool wall, top off gravel as needed
- Fall: Clear fallen leaves before they sink into the pool
- Winter: Protect potted plants from frost if applicable to your climate zone
Preventing Weed Growth
Laying landscape fabric under mulch or gravel significantly reduces weed growth, according to general advice from the Old Farmer’s Almanac.
Protecting the Pool Liner
Keep mulch, soil, and sharp rocks at least a few inches away from direct contact with the pool’s vinyl liner or metal frame to avoid punctures or rust.
Pros and Cons of DIY Pool Landscaping
| Aspect | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Significantly cheaper than professional landscaping | Requires your own time and labor |
| Customization | Full creative control over design | May take trial and error to get right |
| Materials | Can use free/recycled materials | Quality varies depending on source |
| Timeline | Can be done gradually, project by project | Slower than hiring a crew |
| Skill Required | Most projects are beginner-friendly | Some tasks (decking, electrical) need more skill |
Expert Tips for Long-Lasting, Budget Pool Landscaping
Drawing from common recommendations across landscaping and pool maintenance communities, here are a few tips that make a real difference:
- Start small and expand gradually. Tackle one section (like the entry area) first, then build out from there as budget allows.
- Use what you already have. Leftover pavers, extra mulch from another project, or unused pots can all be repurposed.
- Group plants by water needs. This makes watering easier and reduces wasted water.
- Leave maintenance access. Always keep at least one side of the pool clear for filter and equipment access, as recommended by most pool manufacturer manuals.
- Think in layers. Combine ground cover, mid-height plants, and taller elements like trellises for a layered, professional look without extra cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the cheapest way to landscape around an above ground pool?
The cheapest approach is usually a combination of mulch or gravel for ground cover, a few low-cost potted plants, and simple DIY touches like pallet furniture or solar lights. These materials are widely available and require minimal tools.
2. Can I put mulch directly against an above ground pool?
It’s best to leave a small gap between mulch and the pool’s liner or frame. Constant moisture against vinyl or metal can lead to liner damage or rust over time.
3. What ground cover is best for muddy areas around a pool?
Pea gravel or crushed stone tends to work best in areas prone to mud because it drains well and doesn’t break down the way organic mulch does.
4. How can I hide the legs of my above ground pool cheaply?
Skirting kits, decorative fabric, painted plywood panels, or strategically placed potted plants are all affordable ways to hide pool legs without major construction.
5. Do I need a permit for landscaping around an above ground pool?
Landscaping itself (plants, mulch, small pavers) typically doesn’t require a permit, but structures like decks or fences often do. It’s worth checking with your local building department, such as through resources from USA.gov’s local government directory, before starting larger projects.
Final Thoughts
Landscaping around an above ground pool doesn’t have to mean expensive contractors or pricey materials. With a bit of planning, some elbow grease, and creative use of affordable materials like mulch, pavers, and DIY furniture, you can turn a bare pool setup into a backyard space you’re proud of.
Start with one small project this weekend — maybe laying down mulch around the base or adding a few potted plants — and build from there. Small, consistent improvements add up to a backyard transformation that feels custom-designed, without the custom price tag.
Ready to get started? Pick one idea from this guide, grab your gloves, and tackle it this weekend. Your future pool days will thank you.
