Poolside Turf: Choosing and Maintaining Grass Around Pools

There’s nothing quite like stepping out of a swimming pool onto soft, lush grass. But when it comes to finding the best grass for around a pool, not all lawns are created equal.

Chlorine pools, heavy foot traffic, and the unforgiving Australian sun can take a toll on even the hardiest turf. If you’re looking for a poolside lawn that’s easy to maintain and perfect for your outdoor space, you’re in the right place.

Here’s how to choose the right grass, keep it looking lush, and avoid dead patches or muddy disasters.

What is the Best Grass for Around a Pool

When selecting poolside turf, not all grass types perform equally. Here’s a closer look at three of the best options for pool areas in Australia.

Sir Walter Buffalo Grass

Known for its resilience and beauty, Sir Walter Buffalo is an excellent choice for backyard lawns around swimming pools. It’s soft underfoot, thrives in full sun and shade, and has a strong resistance to chlorine and salt water.

It’s also quick to recover from wear, making it perfect for high-traffic areas frequented by kids and pets.

TifTuf Bermuda Grass

TifTuf Bermuda is a standout choice for chlorine pools and direct sunlight. It’s highly drought-tolerant, requiring less water than other grass types, and its fine texture provides a premium look and feel. TifTuf is also UV resistant, which means it can handle the intense Australian summer heat without fading or browning.

Sir Grange Zoysia

If you’re after a luxurious, low-maintenance lawn, Sir Grange Zoysia is hard to beat. This grass thrives in saltwater environments, handles pool chemicals well, and offers a soft yet durable surface.

Its slow growth means less mowing, and its ability to recover quickly from damage makes it perfect for pool areas that see heavy use during the hot summer months.

Why Natural Grass Beats Artificial Grass Around Your Swimming Pool

While installing artificial grass might seem like a low-maintenance solution, natural grass offers benefits that fake lawns simply can’t match.

Cooler temperatures

Unlike an artificial lawn, which can become unbearably hot in direct sunlight, real grass remains cool and comfortable underfoot—even in the peak of summer.

Eco-friendly and urban cooling

Natural grass helps reduce urban heating by cooling the air around it, creating a more pleasant environment for not just your pool area, but your entire backyard.

Water absorption

The ground beneath a lawn naturally absorbs pool water and rain, reducing the risk of slipping around your pool area. In contrast, artificial grass around swimming pool areas often causes water to collect, leading to waterlogging or slippery spots.

Lush aesthetics year-round

There’s nothing quite like the beauty of a lush, green lawn around your swimming pool. Turf provides a timeless, natural aesthetic that enhances your outdoor space.

While artificial grass may be easier to install, its drawbacks—like high surface temperature and the risk of wear and tear—make it less practical for long-term use in a pool area.

Maintaining Lawn Around Swimming Pools

Maintaining grass around a swimming pool comes with unique challenges that go beyond standard lawn care. The combination of pool water, chlorine, and heavy foot traffic can create a demanding environment for your turf.

Regular splashes, exposure to pool chemicals, and reflective heat from the water mean that poolside lawns require a little extra attention to stay lush and healthy. With the right strategies, you can tackle these challenges head-on and ensure your grass around the pool thrives year-round.

Solving drainage challenges

One of the biggest issues with maintaining grass around your pool is dealing with splash-out and pool water. Without proper drainage, you could end up with soggy patches or mud around the pool.

Smart drainage solutions:

• Grade the area around your swimming pool to channel water away from the lawn.
• Use a porous, sand-based underlay to keep the turf healthy and dry.
• Add decorative borders like pebbles or pavers to minimise water exposure in high-traffic areas.

By keeping water from pooling on your grass, you’ll avoid dead patches and keep your garden looking lush and welcoming throughout summer.

Protecting grass from sunburn

The direct sunlight around your swimming pool can cause grass to dry out or burn, especially when combined with the reflective surface of pool water.

Pro tips for sun protection:

• Choose drought-tolerant grass types like Sir Walter Buffalo or TifTuf Bermuda grass.
• Keep the grass slightly longer during the summer to protect it from intense heat.
• Add shade elements like umbrellas or sails to reduce sun exposure.

Long-Term Lawn Care Tips

If you want a beautiful pool area that lasts year-round, a little maintenance goes a long way. Here are some practical tips to keep your poolside turf looking its best.

Check soil pH

Pool chemicals can impact the soil around the pool. Test the pH regularly and adjust with lime or sulfur to keep it in the ideal range of 6.0–7.0.

Fertilising

Use slow-release fertilisers that balance the grass’s needs without encouraging runoff into the pool.

Aerate the lawn

Heavy foot traffic from kids, pets, and family gatherings can compact the soil. Aerate it annually to promote healthy roots.

Water smartly

Deep watering once or twice a week keeps roots strong. Avoid overwatering, which can lead to mud or drainage issues.

Summer Lawn Care

Summer brings intense heat and extra challenges for your lawn. Adjust your summer watering schedule to ensure your turf stays hydrated without overdoing it.

Pair that with targeted summer fertilising to give your grass the nutrients it needs to thrive. For more tips, check out our guide to summer lawn care.

Enjoy a Relaxing, Lush Poolside Lawn

Having the best lawn around your pool doesn’t have to mean hours of backbreaking maintenance. With the right grass types, proper care, and a smart approach to challenges like pool water, chemicals, and sun exposure, you can create a beautiful outdoor space that’s perfect for summer fun and year-round relaxation.

So whether you’re planning a new pool installation or giving your existing pool grass an upgrade, don’t settle for fake grass. Invest in real grass that’s built for the job—because your backyard deserves the best.