7. In-Ground Look with Raised Retaining Wall Planters
Introduction
Disguise the height of an above-ground pool by building stone retaining walls around its perimeter, filled with cascading flowers, ornamental grasses, and lush perennials to create an integrated garden bed effect.
What This Idea Means
This concept merges horticulture with pool architecture. By surrounding the pool with living garden walls, the structure appears nestled naturally into the landscape rather than sitting on top of it.
How to Make It
- Planning the Perimeter: Build a semi-circle or full-circle retaining wall using modular interlocking concrete blocks or natural stacked stone, leaving a 2-foot gap between the wall and the pool wall.
- Drainage and Soil: Backfill the space between the retaining wall and pool with clean drainage gravel at the base, topped with nutrient-rich garden soil.
- Planting Selection: Plant trailing perennials, cascading sweet potato vines, and ornamental grasses that spill gracefully over the stone edge.
- Access Steps: Build stone or wooden step-over paths allowing easy entry into the pool deck area.
Tips and Variations
- Tip: Install a drip irrigation system within the raised planter beds to keep your landscaping thriving effortlessly through dry summer months.
- Variation: Plant fragrant herbs like lavender and rosemary along the pool border so their scent fills the air when the water ripples.
Needs to Make That Thing
- Modular retaining wall blocks or natural fieldstone
- Geotextile fabric and drainage gravel
- Premium garden soil and mulch
- Selection of perennial plants and ornamental grasses
