For the Garden Provides Ways to Deck Out Your Deck

You know it’s almost summer time when you start thinking about deck/patio parties. There are so many ways to make your deck or patio a fun and beautiful place to be—the sky really is the limit! 

One trend I noticed when the economy took a turn a few years back was that my customers wanted their own yards to feel indulgent. It all made sense to me—as many of us had to buckle down and cut back on luxuries like vacations, we naturally wanted to create a space right here at home that felt good and looked beautiful. 

It was during this time period that I began to increase the amount of outdoor living items at my store. Brightly colored pots, table accents, fountains, garden art and of course great looking planters were very well received as my customers looked to up the “wow factor” in their outdoor living spaces.  The outdoor living area has become a trendy, three-season space.  And, just like indoor décor, this area has decorating trends that change from year to year. Here are some hot trends that I’ve picked up on for 2011. 

• Hot, bold colored pots. Think lemon, lime and orange.
• Monochromatic planters. Remember—it doesn’t have to be complicated to make a statement. 
• Gardening with a purpose. There is no reason that you can’t incorporate an herb that you’ll use for cooking in a planter you use for decoration.

My deck is one of my favorite areas of my house to decorate. Each year I change the theme. Some years I’ll create bright, tropical looking containers. I’ll try to make each one unique and over the top. This look is fun and always strikes up a conversation with my guests. Other years I’ll go with a monochromatic look. This year each of my containers follows the same pattern—it looks very “together” and polished. I really can’t decide which look I like the best; I guess that’s why I change it up from year to year!

One important consideration for your deck or patio area is the time of day you during which you’ll use it most. If you do more nighttime entertainment, I’d suggest “moon garden” colors—think white and pastel—these light hued flowers will seem to glow in the moonlight! This year I used these “moon garden” colors behind my own house in the areas where the gardens are harder to see at night.  These pastel gardens look great and they are easy to see while enjoying the deck area during the nighttime hours! 

Another important element of an outdoor living area is sound. I think a fountain (even if it’s just a small one) significantly adds a sense of relaxation to any deck or patio area.  If a fountain doesn’t appeal to you I’d suggest a good wind chime; they come in all different tones and suit a variety of tastes.

No matter how you choose to “deck out” your deck or patio area I promise that when you’re finished you’ll have a space that will be enjoyed in the months ahead.  Have fun and get creative—you’ll be glad you did!  And when you’re finished decorating snap a few pictures of your “decked out” deck or patio area I’d love to see them—and maybe even share them with my readers!

Happy planting!