How to Create a Patio or Deck Sanctuary With Plants

You can turn any deck into a sanctuary with plants.

A patio or deck can become a sanctuary if you take time to plan everything to enhance shade, privacy and minimize regular maintenance. You can use a wide array of plants to provide an explosion of color or to complement the colors of your yard and home. Creating the sanctuary will only take a day or two depending on the level of transformation you wish to complete. Use your imagination and do not be afraid to make changes as you go along.

Things You'll Need

• Patio or deck furniture
• Rose bushes or lilacs
• Vine plants
• Smaller potted plants

Instructions

1. Place your patio or deck furniture where it is most comfortable for you. This includes tables, chairs and any other pieces of furniture you wish to use. Doing this first allows you to place the plants in areas that will not hinder your movement while on the deck or patio.

2. Place larger potted shrubs or trees on the eastern or western side of your porch or patio to provide shade during the morning and evening. This natural shade prevents the need for obstructive awnings or umbrellas.

3. Place vibrant-smelling plants such as rose bushes around the perimeter of your porch or patio. Larger bushes such as lilacs or roses do not do well in pots. However, they can grow tall and provide privacy and aromatherapy when planted around your area.

4. Place smaller aromatic potted plants closer to your seating area so you can smell them. Often sweet-smelling flowers also provide a pleasant appearance and add a splash of color to green shrubs or trees that line the eastern or western side of your area.

5. Add vine plants to the corners of your railing and, as the plants grow, rotate the vines around the railing. The vines will eventually cover the railing and provide a natural edge to your porch.

References

• Oregon State University; How to Grow a Potted Tree on Your Patio or Porch; Carol Savonen
• Burke's Backyard: Best Pot Plants for Sun and Shade