Don’t have much of a backyard, but want to start growing vegetables, herbs, and flowers? If you have a deck, even if it’s small, you could use that as Ground Zero for your new hobby instead! Here’s how you can turn that little wooden platform at the back of your house into a lush, productive garden.
Pick the Right Containers
The first step for setting up a garden on your deck is to decide what containers you’ll use for your plants. There are so many options out there, from classic terracotta pots to modern resin planters. You can even find fabric grow bags which are lightweight and provide excellent aeration for plant roots. Choose containers that match your style and have drainage holes at the bottom so your plants don’t get waterlogged.
Choose Your Plants Carefully
What do you want to grow? Herbs like basil and rosemary are popular choices because they’re pretty hardy. You could also try some vegetables like cherry tomatoes or peppers. If you prefer flowers, petunias and marigolds add a nice splash of color. Just pick plants that will be happy in the amount of sunlight your deck gets each day.
Mind the Sun Exposure
Speaking of sunlight, you’ll need to figure out how much your deck gets. Does it get full sun all day, or is it mostly shady? Some plants need at least six hours of direct sunlight, while others prefer partial shade. Once you know your deck’s sun situation, you can pick plants that will thrive there.
Use an Outdoor Rug
If you’re worried about soil, water, or stray leaves falling through the slats in your deck and causing a mess below, you can place an outdoor rug beneath your containers to catch any debris. To choose the right outdoor rug for your deck, consider the material, size, and style. You want a rug that’s weather-resistant, easy to clean, and complements your outdoor decor.
Think About a Water Source
Your plants will need water, and carrying a watering can back and forth can get old fast. Is there a hose spigot nearby? If not, you could set up a small rain barrel to collect water. A self-coiling hose is also a convenient option that won’t take up much space.
Your New Garden
Use these tips to set up a garden on your deck! While you may not be able to grow as much produce on a deck compared to a large plot in a yard, you can still fit a surprising number of pots and planters full of your favorite plants.
