I remember the first time I was struck how potted plants and flowers could really enhance a patio, just as much as gardens enhance a backyard (see our 59 backyard ideas gallery).

It was when I saw my now mother-in-law’s deck in late Spring for the first time. The large deck exploded in color but was done in a way that didn’t encroach available sitting space.

The deck has a railing on all sides and she uses the railing and corners for a myriad of potted plants and flowers.




 

Patio potted flower and plant tips:

1. Tier for cascading effect

I love this technique more than anything else. Planning tiered potted plants and flowers is like setting up bleacher seating. You want the front low and then each subsequent row rises above the preceding creating a cascading wall of flowers and plants. Even a simple cascade is stunning.

2. Use available railings privacy walls

Railings are ideal for planter boxes. Privacy walls are great for attaching planters with flowers to create a quasi living wall (also see our 50 vertical garden ideas).

3. Fill up the corners

Corners are great spaces for potted plants and flowers. You can place large pots or a series of small pots. They form the pillars of the patio or deck space.

4. Use flowers along edges

If a patio, lining up potted plants along the edge is a brilliant way to demarcate a patio from the rest of the yard.

5. Be mindful of the pots and boxes you use

While the flowers and plants are the star, don’t forget your choice of pots and planters. Pots and planters are a strong supporting role. Badly chosen pots/planters can detract from the overall effect.

6. Plan for the full season

I know my mother-in-law takes care in planning her deck flowers so the deck is in bloom from Spring through early Fall. This just takes some planning so you know what to plant and when.