How to Choose the Right Plants for Planting on a Deck

Creating a lush, vibrant garden on your deck not only enhances the aesthetics of your home but also provides a space for relaxation and enjoyment. The comfort of your home extends beyond its interior to your outdoor spaces. One such space is your deck, which can be transformed into a lush, vibrant garden. But how do you go about planting on a deck?

This guide will help you understand the benefits of deck plants, what to consider before choosing them, and how to maintain them.

Benefits of Deck Plants

Deck plants not only enhance the aesthetics of your home by adding vibrant colors, interesting textures, and a touch of life, but they also offer numerous benefits. Apart from their visual appeal, these plants contribute to improved air quality, creating a healthier and more refreshing environment for you and your family to enjoy.

A well-maintained deck garden can have a positive impact on the value of your property. It serves as an attractive feature that adds a unique element to your outdoor space, making your home more appealing to potential buyers and increasing its overall market value. Investing in a deck garden is a wise decision that brings beauty, health, and value to your property.

What to Consider Before Choosing Deck Plants

Before you start your deck gardening adventure, take a moment to consider a few important factors. First, think about the amount of sunlight that reaches your deck. This will help you determine which plants will thrive in your space. Next, consider the available space on your deck and choose plants that will fit comfortably. Think about the overall look you want to achieve. Do you envision a sleek and minimalist design with a few standout plants, or do you dream of a lush and vibrant garden that will turn heads?

By carefully considering these factors, you can create a deck garden that is not only beautiful but also perfectly tailored to your preferences.

planters on a deck

Choosing the Right Location

Sunlight Requirements

Different plants have different sunlight needs. Some require full sunlight, while others do well in shade. Therefore, observe your deck's sunlight exposure and select plants that will thrive in those conditions.

Space and Size Constraints

The size of your deck and the space each plant requires for healthy growth should guide your choice of plants. Larger plants need more space, while smaller ones can fit into compact spaces. However, avoid overcrowding your deck to ensure good air circulation.

Aesthetic Considerations

Your deck garden should harmonize with your home's overall aesthetic. Consider the colors, shapes, and textures of the plants you choose. You could opt for a specific color palette or go for a mix of colors for a more eclectic feel.

The Top Plants for Your Deck

Low-Maintenance Options

Succulents and Cacti: These are perfect for those seeking low-maintenance plants. They require minimal watering and are resilient.
Lavender: Not only is lavender visually appealing, but it also emits a calming scent.
Rosemary: This robust herb is easy to cultivate and can be used in culinary dishes.

Colorful Blooms

Geraniums: Geraniums, available in various colors, are relatively simple to maintain.
Petunias: These vibrant flowers can add a splash of color to your deck.
Hydrangeas: Hydrangeas are spectacular flowering plants that make any garden stand out.

Fragrant Varieties

Jasmine: Jasmine plants produce a delightful, enchanting fragrance.
Mint: Mint is easy to cultivate, and its refreshing aroma can invigorate your deck.
Gardenias: Known for their intoxicating scent, gardenias can transform your deck into a fragrant haven.

Vertical Garden Choices

Climbing Roses: These can be trained to climb structures, adding an element of height and intrigue to your deck.
Ivy: Ivy is a classic choice for vertical gardening.
Vertical Planters: These allow you to cultivate a variety of plants in a limited space.

Edible Deck Gardens

Herbs

Basil: Basil is an easy-to-grow herb that can be used in various dishes.
Thyme: Thyme is another versatile herb that is simple to cultivate.
Parsley: Parsley is a robust herb that adds flavor to meals and looks great in planters.

Dwarf Fruit Trees and Berry Bushes

If you enjoy fresh produce, consider cultivating dwarf fruit trees and berry bushes on your deck. They not only add greenery to your deck but also provide fresh ingredients for your meals.

Seasonal Planting Tips

Spring and Summer

Choose plants that can endure intense sunlight in the spring and summer. Consider flowers that bloom during these seasons for a vibrant deck garden.

Fall and Winter

Opt for plants that can survive cooler temperatures in the fall and winter. Evergreens are a great choice for year-round greenery.

Year-Round Interest

For year-round appeal, mix plants that bloom at different times throughout the year. This ensures that your deck garden always has something interesting to look at.

Container Gardening Essentials

Selecting the Right Planters

The right planters are essential for a successful deck garden. Bison’s site furnishings offer a blend of practicality and style, making them an excellent choice for your deck garden.

Bison Cubes and Trays:

Bison Cubes are modular planters crafted from high-strength Aluminum and Ipê, available in an array of colors and finishes. They are not just ordinary planters; these cubes are designed to integrate seamlessly with Bison Deck Systems, offering architects complete design flexibility. Whether you plan to create a sleek minimalist deck garden or a lush, vibrant oasis, Bison Cubes fit the bill perfectly.
Wood Cube Accent for Rooftop Ipê Wood Cubes and Aluminum Cube Accent for Rooftop Aluminum Cubes provide a versatile solution for those looking to add an aesthetic touch to their rooftop gardens. These cubes are crafted from high-grade materials, ensuring durability and longevity.
To add dimension and texture to your deck areas, consider Bison Trays. The lightweight aluminum trays are exceptionally durable, perfect for withstanding outdoor conditions.
The Ipê Cube Tops are an excellent addition to your wooden cubes, enhancing their visual appeal, while the Aluminum Tray Accent for Rooftop Aluminum Trays add a modern, stylish touch to your rooftop garden. With Bison's range of gardening essentials, creating a deck garden that harmonizes with your home's aesthetics and meets your functional needs becomes an effortless endeavor.

Soil and Drainage

The soil you use can significantly impact your plants' health. Choose a well-draining soil to prevent water retention. Also, ensure your planters have proper drainage holes.

Watering and Maintenance

Plants in containers generally require more frequent watering than those planted in the ground. Establish a consistent watering routine and stick to it. Regular pruning will also help keep your plants healthy and attractive.

Design Tips for a Beautiful Deck Garden

Color and Texture

When designing your deck garden, consider color and texture. Choose plants with different colors and textures to create visual interest.

Plant Arrangement

Arrange your plants in a visually pleasing manner. You could group plants with similar colors or textures, or mix them up for a more varied look.

Accessories and Decor

Incorporate accessories and decor to enhance your garden's charm. Bison’s site furnishings offer a variety of options that can add style and functionality to your deck garden.

In conclusion, a deck garden can transform your outdoor space into a lush, vibrant sanctuary. By selecting suitable plants and caring for them properly, you can enjoy a stunning garden all year round. Start your gardening adventure today by exploring Bison’s site furnishings for on-grade or rooftop deck gardens.

Contact Us

In wrapping up, cultivating a deck garden is a rewarding endeavor that adds beauty, serenity, and value to your home. The journey of creating a lush, vibrant garden on your deck is made simple with the right plants, care, and accessories. Bison’s site furnishings make it effortless to add style and functionality to your deck garden. So why not get started on this gardening adventure today? We're here to support you every step of the way. If you have any questions or need further guidance, feel free to contact us. Let us help transform your deck into the garden sanctuary of your dreams.