Landscape Tips for Decks, Patios, and Pools: Container Strategies

Use Containers on Decks, Patios, and Around Pools

Outdoor living areas put plantings up close—choose combinations carefully. Seating areas are perfect for fragrant flowers, variegated foliage, or bicolor blooms. Consider size, growing conditions, insects, and color blending.

See great heat-tolerant plants for containers.

Think About Plant Size

Match plant size to space. Too-large overpowers a small patio; too-small disappears beside a pool. With containers, buy full-grown for instant color. Research mature size to avoid top-heavy pots on elevated decks. Decks expose plants to intense sun/heat—shade lovers like impatiens may struggle.

Water gardens work on decks if load capacity allows. Blossoms attract pollinators—consider when placing near seating, barefoot zones, play spaces.

Mix and Match

Match flower/leaf colors to fabric hues. Choose containers suiting the outdoor room's style. Formal: several pots with same plant. Casual: mix lush plants and patterned foliage.

Perk Up a Pool

Keep plant palette tight near pool—repeat a few plants. Place bee-attracting plants 4+ feet from coping/seating. For large pools, use tall plants and hanging baskets for vertical interest.

Get plans for succulent container gardens.

Be Container-Savvy

Consider built-in planters with seating to overcome wind. Deck rail planters for seasonal color. Stand-alone containers allow swapping seasonal color and moving for gatherings. Narrow spaces: wall/fence planters or vertical gardens.

Keep Water on Hand

Potted plants need ample water. If no hose bib nearby, add a Y connector and handy hose length.

Add Lighting to Your Outdoor Spaces