The Pros and Cons of Trees Around Pools
On a hot summer day, you probably want two things: shade and a dip in the pool. Having a shade tree near your pool is the perfect combo, right? Not quite. If you’re looking to add trees to your yard, especially with a pool, you need to make sure you plant them in a location that will give you the benefit of shade without causing damage to your pool, both above and below the ground level.
Why You Shouldn’t Plant Trees Around Your Pool
When you’re bent over your pool with a skimmer trying to get every leaf that has fallen in, you probably already want to remove every tree within a five-mile radius. However, leaves aren’t the only problem with having a pool close to trees. Other issues can arise, including:
- `1. Roots
Stand under a tree and look up; see how far the branches reach? Some research indicates that roots can reach anywhere from 2 to 7 times the diameter of the tree’s crown. So, what does this mean for your pool? As your trees grow, the roots will spread. Eventually, they can get close enough to your pool that damage can occur. You can use root barriers to deter further growth if the roots haven’t gotten too close to your pool. However, for older trees, removal might be the only way to ensure that your pool doesn’t get damaged.
- 2. Leaves and Needles
The most obvious problem caused by trees near pools is leaves and needles that fall into the water and clog filters. Over time, leaves and needles will build up and block your filtration lines. The blockage leads to additional stress on your filtration system and, over time, will force replacement.
- 3. Animals
Trees attract animal life, from squirrels and birds to bugs and more. Where there are animals, there’s waste and messes such as falling nests. Sadly, increased animal life around your pool can lead to animals getting stuck in the water, drowning, or even getting sucked into filters.
The Worst Trees to Plant Near Pool Areas
Whether you’re planting new trees or evaluating the trees already near your pool, there are a few types that you should avoid:
- Berry plants
- Flowering trees
- Fruit trees
- Needle-bearing evergreens
- Nut trees
The central recurring theme is to avoid anything that will fall off, like flowers, needles, nuts, and fruit. Fruits, berries, and nuts also attract animal life. Specific species to avoid include oak, elm, and pine trees. In most situations, you’ll want to avoid trees by your pool, regardless of type. All trees can cause problems for your pool in some way.
The Best Trees to Plant Near Pool
Using trees to provide shade for a pool isn’t impossible. The best choice is evergreens that don’t have needles, such as laurel, acacia, and eucalyptus. These trees can help provide shade without the risk of falling debris.
Palm trees are an excellent and time-tested choice for poolside landscaping in suitable climates. Some olive trees don’t bear fruit, so they attract fewer animals.
Preserve Your Pool with A Pool Inspection
If trees surround your pool, regular inspection is essential. Over time, leaves, needles, and root intrusion can cause pump, filtration, and structural problems. Inspections can help catch these issues before they force replacement. Your pump isn’t the only thing that can be damaged, though, and our inspection will cover everything from your deck to cracks in your pool’s substructure. Request service online or call (866) 253-0455 today.