Your deck is an extension of your home—a place to relax, entertain, and enjoy the outdoors. But without greenery, it can feel bare and uninspired. Whether you want to add a pop of color with flowers, create a natural privacy screen, or grow fresh herbs for cooking, the right plants can transform your deck into a vibrant, welcoming space.
At Custom Built, we understand how thoughtful landscaping enhances not just the look of your outdoor space but also how you use it. With Michigan’s changing seasons, choosing the right greenery requires careful planning to ensure your plants thrive year-round.
In this guide, we’ll explore planters, vertical gardens, living walls, and other creative ways to bring greenery to your deck:
- Planters
- Vertical Gardens
- Living Walls
- Potted Trees and Shrubs
- Hanging Baskets and Pots
- Herb and Vegetable Gardens
Header PC: Better Homes & Gardens
1. Planters
PC: Sawdust Therapy
Planters are a classic way to add greenery to your deck, offering flexibility in design and placement. You can mix and match different plants to create a visually appealing and dynamic space.
Best Plants:
- Geraniums, petunias, and marigolds for bright seasonal color
- Boxwoods and dwarf evergreens for year-round greenery
- Herbs like basil, rosemary, and thyme for a functional touch
Considerations:
- Choose weather-resistant planters that can withstand Michigan’s changing seasons.
- Position planters where they receive the right amount of sunlight based on the plant’s needs.
- Water regularly, especially in the summer months, to prevent soil from drying out.
2. Vertical Gardens
PC: LiveWall
Vertical gardens allow you to maximize greenery without sacrificing deck space. These can be used for decorative purposes or even as privacy screens.
Best Plants:
- Ferns and ivy for lush greenery
- Herbs like mint and oregano that don’t need direct sunlight
- Flowering vines like clematis or morning glories for added color
Considerations:
- Ensure vertical planters or trellises are sturdy enough to support growing plants.
- Choose plants based on sunlight exposure—some thrive in shade, while others need full sun.
- Watering can be more challenging with vertical gardens, so consider a drip irrigation system.
3. Living Walls
PC: Vistafolia
Living walls function similarly to vertical gardens but offer a more integrated, seamless look by covering an entire section of the deck.
Best Plants:
- Succulents like sedum for low-maintenance greenery
- Low-growing perennials like hostas for shaded areas
- Moss walls for a modern, eco-friendly design
Considerations:
- Living walls require a structured planting system with proper drainage.
- A built-in irrigation system may be necessary to keep plants hydrated.
- Choose a location that complements the overall deck design and provides optimal growing conditions.
4. Potted Trees and Shrubs
PC: Trees.com
Adding trees and shrubs in pots is a great way to bring height and structure to your deck. These plants provide natural beauty, shade, and even wind protection.
Best Plants:
- Japanese maple for a striking decorative touch
- Dwarf spruce or juniper for evergreen foliage
- Hydrangeas for a lush seasonal bloom
Considerations:
- Choose pots that are large enough for root growth and have proper drainage.
- Some trees and shrubs may need to be moved indoors or wrapped in winter.
- Regular pruning keeps them looking their best.
5. Hanging Baskets and Pots
PC: Crescent Garden
Hanging baskets and pots add visual interest at eye level and can be a great option for small decks with limited space.
Best Plants:
- Petunias and begonias for vibrant hanging flowers
- Spider plants and trailing ivy for cascading greenery
- Impatiens for shady spots
Considerations:
- Ensure sturdy hooks or brackets to hold the weight of wet soil.
- Water frequently, as hanging baskets and pots dry out faster than ground planters.
- Rotate plants seasonally to keep the display fresh.
6. Herb & Vegetable Gardens
PC: One Kindesign
Growing your own herbs and vegetables on your deck allows you to enjoy fresh ingredients right outside your door.
Best Plants:
- Tomatoes, peppers, and lettuce for easy container gardening
- Basil, chives, and cilantro for fresh herbs
- Strawberries for a fun, edible plant choice
Considerations:
- Raised garden beds or deep containers are ideal for root growth.
- Protect plants from pests using mesh or chicken wire.
- Consider the sunlight and watering needs of each plant before planting.
More Deck Greenery Ideas
Beyond planters, vertical gardens, and living walls, there are other creative ways to bring greenery to your deck. These options add beauty, privacy, and even functional benefits to your outdoor space.
Trellises with Climbing Plants
- Use trellises to support climbing plants like clematis, jasmine, or honeysuckle.
- Provides natural privacy while adding a decorative element.
- Consider a freestanding or attached trellis based on your deck’s layout.
Deck Rail Planters
- Maximize space by attaching planters to the deck railing.
- Great for flowers, herbs, or small trailing plants.
- Ensure proper drainage to prevent water damage to the deck.
Green Roof or Pergola Plants
- Train vines like wisteria or grapevines to grow over a pergola for shade and beauty.
- A green roof on a covered deck section can provide insulation and aesthetic appeal.
- Choose plants suited for the weight and maintenance level of the structure.
How to Choose the Right Deck Greenery
Selecting the right greenery for your deck depends on several factors, including your climate, available space, and how much maintenance you’re willing to commit to.
Factors to Consider:
- Sunlight Exposure: Identify whether your deck gets full sun, partial sun, or shade, and choose plants accordingly.
- Space Constraints: For small decks, vertical gardens and hanging baskets are ideal. Larger decks can accommodate planters and potted trees.
- Seasonality: Consider whether you want year-round greenery or seasonal plants that change throughout the year.
- Maintenance Level: Some plants require regular pruning and watering, while others, like succulents or evergreens, are low-maintenance.
- Aesthetic Goals: Decide whether you want a lush, tropical look, a structured and modern appearance, or a colorful floral display.
By carefully choosing the right plants and setup, you can create a deck that complements your home’s style and provides the perfect outdoor retreat.
Next Steps to Building or Remodeling Your Deck
Greenery enhances your deck’s beauty, privacy, and functionality. Whether it’s planters, vertical gardens, or potted trees, you can create a thriving outdoor space that fits your lifestyle.
At Custom Built, we design and build decks that blend style, durability, and function for year-round enjoyment.
Ready to transform your deck? Contact Custom Built today to start planning your perfect outdoor space.
Now that you know more about adding greenery to your deck, let’s explore how much lighting and composite decks cost and Trex’s high-quality composite lines:
- How Much Does Deck Lighting Cost in Michigan? - Discover how much Trex and other deck lighting options cost and what affects the estimate.
- How Much Do Composite Decks Cost in Lansing, Michigan? - An overview of how much your Lansing composite deck will cost and the factors that will influence your price.
- Comparing Trex Lineage, Transcend, Select, and Enhance Composite Decking Lines - Explore our thorough comparison of Trex’s most common composite decking options, including cost, colors, and benefits.
