Deck Design with Plants in Mind

Connecting with nature is one of the joys of outdoor living on a deck. Adding plants to your deck brings life, a connection to the seasons, and color to your outdoor design.
Read on for ideas for how to integrate plants into your deck—whether you’re in the design phase or are adding plants to a deck you’ve already built.

Plant Care Deck Designer Tips

Plants need the right amount of sun and water to thrive. Think through how your design provides for plant care in the long term.

What is your deck’s sun exposure throughout the day? PVC decking stays cooler than composite decking. Look for plant varieties that thrive in both sun and shade.

Along with the amount of sunlight, consider the water your plants will need. How will you water them, and how will water drain from the pots or planters? It’s best to design so that water isn’t draining into the middle of your deck.

Deck Designer: Beautiful Built-ins

Building an attached bench and planter along the deck edge is a popular and beautiful option for incorporating plants into your design. The greenery provides a natural design element while also anchoring your seating area visually.

Another option for a built-in is to create a standalone corner box or feature. This is a nice way to create separate sections on your deck or to optimize your outdoor kitchen and grilling area with herbs and vegetables.

Deck Designer: Botanical Borders

If you’ve already built a deck, it’s not too late to add gorgeous, complementary planters to your design. Build boxes around the edge to create a stunning border. Consider taller plants for higher decks.

Deck Ideas: Perfect Pots

Adding standalone potted plants and planters are another easy way to incorporate plants into your deck. Use different colors and materials to add personality and whimsy to your outdoor space. Set around furniture or on stairs to give the deck a cozy feel.

Deck Ideas: Surprising Planters

Larger planter boxes can also be placed on your deck. Build your own planter boxes from complementary decking, or fascia and riser boards. Use leftover boards or pieces if you have any leftover from building your deck. These planters give the look of a built-in but can be moved or rearranged either with the seasons or as your design needs change.