Landscape Around Hot Tub
hot tub
(Image credit: IPGGutenbergUKLtd)

A hot tub and surrounding plants should work together to create a luxurious and sensual lounging space. Be sure to choose plants for hot tub areas that create the look and feel you want. Planting around a hot tub is a critical step to setting the peaceful scene of a hot tub garden.

If you are thinking about putting in some hot tub landscaping, read on for information about what to plant in backyard jacuzzi gardens.

Hot Tub Landscaping

When you decide to install a hot tub, you may have visions of romantic and relaxing evenings spent in warm water with a beautiful setting. Your first step is to select a good location for the hot tub itself. Many homeowners prefer to have their hot tubs within easy reach of the house.

Work with the hot tub dealer to come up with a plan to integrate the spa into your home landscape and complement the design aesthetics of your outdoor environment. Part of the landscaping will involve planting around a hot tub.

You will want to surround your spa area with plants that create privacy, add texture, and create a romantic atmosphere. The hot tub gardens also provide a lush view to admire as you relax in the water.

Plants for a Hot Tub Area

What are good plants for hot tub areas? Before you choose exotic vegetation to create a specific theme or vibe, remember that the plants in your hot tub gardens must grow happily in the area you live. If you live in a desert area, for example, you can use cacti, agave, succulents, or palm trees around your hot tub. However, you won’t be able to use plants requiring cooler or wetter weather.

First, think privacy. You will want the area around the hot tub to be protected from curious eyes. Select privacy hedge plants that work in your hardiness zone, anything from bamboo to holly shrubs. Ornamental grasses can work well in most regions and offer undulating, luxurious cover.

Plants with delicate leaves like Japanese maples and flowering vines add a romantic touch. Scented plants will help you relax. Try fragrant evergreen shrubs like sweet box if your hot tub garden is in the shade. For sun-loving fragrant plants, consider lilacs or lavender.

Teo Spengler
Writer

Teo Spengler has been gardening for 30 years. She is a docent at the San Francisco Botanical Garden. Her passion is trees, 250 of which she has planted on her land in France.