How to Select Patio Plants for Architecture and Texture

Choosing plants for the patio is important. Some plants are grown for their overall impact--usually termed their habit. They may make striking shapes in the garden, but when moved to the patio their architecture and texture can be used to maximum effect. Architecture and texture are two elements of plants that often get overlooked for the more showy color and fragrance appeal, but they can change the entire feel of a patio space.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Patio
• Plants

1. Add lighting to accent foliage. If you intend to use the patio mainly in the evening and at night, it is worth including some lighting in the planting. Subtle lighting will highlight large glossy leaves or distinctive silhouettes. This effect is perfect for palms and ferns.

2. Use container plants. Container plants like fatsias are usually grown as houseplants, but they are more or less hardy and take kindly to life outdoors in a sheltered spot. Their palm like, evergreen leaves bring a touch of the exotic to the garden.

3. Install a succulent garden. Cacti and aloes do well in patio spaces while adding texture and architecture with their unique growth. Aloes and cacti work well if they are planted in containers, but if you have a space protected by a wall or overhanging roof then plant them in the ground. Accent them with a layer of rock covering and take precautions in the winter.

4. Plant ornamental grasses. Grasses are becoming greatly admired with gardeners and with excellent reason. They are easy to keep up and even retain foliage over winter. An added bonus is that a riming of frost on a cold winter's morning only adds to their beauty. Ornamental grasses are useful for softening a vivid planting of flowers and work surprisingly well with conifers.

5. Plant ferns in shaded areas. Ferns come in a variety of sizes textures and shapes, but all crave shade. Adding ferns of various sizes can create lush but dynamic patio spaces.

6. Add ornamental trees and shrubs. Trees over the most diversity in terms of architecture and texture. Palms and maples are great for their stunning foliage and ability to supply height to a patio.

7. Plant unique plants on patio borders. Sago palms and sentry plants are perfect for planting near the patio and creating architecture with their design. Both require very little maintenance and keep their overall interest year-round.