Plants For Under a Deck

by Laura
(Cincinnati)

Laura wants to know what to plant under her deck.

What do you suggest to do with dead grass area under new deck? The ground is very level and we have already done a brick paver sidewalk toward a paver patio next to our waterfall/pond. I don't want to do more pavers, but something easier that looks nice. The deck is 20'x15' and is 10' off the ground (easy to walk under).

ANSWER
Hi Laura,
You have a perfect situation for a shade garden. You can plant lots of Ferns and Hosta to make it very lush. You might also like to add groundcover such as Pachysandra, Ivy or Vinca. Adding hanging plants from the upper deck boards is fun too.

Whatever you plant, do it in groups of a variety. For example, plant a group of 5 to 7 Ferns and then a group of Hosta. You can use different types of Ferns and Hosta for each group for interest.

Hosta and Ferns are perennials. If you want to add some evergreen shrubs, consider Leucothoe.

For other ideas on shade perennials, take a look here: Shade Perennials

**Note** The above picture is the completed garden! Thanks, Laura! It looks great.The only thing I might suggest is some edging. You could use steel edging (very unobtrusive), pavers on edge, or some natural stones/small boulders.