12 Back Patio Decorating Ideas with Plants to Transform Your Outdoor Space

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Many people look for simple ways to improve their back patios and make them more inviting. Adding plants is an easy and effective method to bring life and color to an outdoor space.

A back patio decorated with various plants in pots, hanging baskets, and climbing vines around seating and dining areas.

Plants can transform a patio by adding natural beauty, privacy, and a calm atmosphere. They work well in different types of containers and settings, fitting spaces big or small.

1) Lavender topiary in vintage galvanized pots

Twelve galvanized metal pots with lavender topiary plants arranged on a stone patio outdoors.

A lavender topiary adds simple elegance to any back patio. Placing it in a vintage galvanized pot gives a rustic, charming look. The metal pot should have drainage to keep the plant healthy. This mix of greenery and vintage style creates a soft, inviting outdoor space. For more ideas, see vintage galvanized buckets in garden decor.

2) Hydrangea arrangements for farmhouse porches

A farmhouse porch and back patio decorated with multiple hydrangea flower arrangements in pots and planters, surrounded by greenery and outdoor seating.

Hydrangeas in pots add a classic touch to farmhouse porches. Their large blooms work well with natural wood and rustic decor. They can be placed on steps or near the front door to create a welcoming feel. Using soft colors like white or pale pink fits the farmhouse style best. For ideas, see hydrangea landscaping for farmhouse porches.

3) Roses in classic terracotta containers

Back patio decorated with twelve terracotta pots filled with blooming roses and surrounded by green plants.

Roses grow well in terracotta pots because these containers allow good air flow to the roots. They help keep the soil from staying too wet, which roses dislike. With proper watering and sunlight, roses in terracotta pots can add a timeless look to any back patio. For tips on growing roses in containers, see this guide on how to grow roses in containers.

4) Petunias mixed with bacopa in hanging baskets

Hanging baskets filled with colorful petunias and white bacopa flowers on a back patio with plants and outdoor furniture.

Petunias and bacopa work well together in hanging baskets. Petunias add bright colors, while bacopa’s trailing habit fills gaps softly. This mix creates a balanced look with continuous blooms and gentle flow. It is a simple way to add charm to any back patio. See more on combining petunias and bacopa in hanging baskets.

5) Sweet potato vine for lush trailing foliage

A back patio decorated with lush sweet potato vine plants trailing from planters and hanging baskets around outdoor furniture.

Sweet potato vine is a popular choice for adding trailing greenery to a back patio. It grows well in sunny spots and offers vibrant colors like purple, bronze, and chartreuse. Its dense leaves create a full, lush look that works well in containers or garden beds. For creative ideas, see sweet potato vine landscaping options.

6) Curved planting beds to add visual interest

Back patio with curved planting beds filled with various green plants and flowers, surrounded by outdoor furniture.

Curved planting beds create a soft, natural look that breaks up straight lines. They guide the eye and make a patio feel more inviting. Using curves can also help define different areas without the need for walls or fences.

7) Giant planters filled with lightweight bottom fillers

Back patio with twelve large planters filled with plants and lightweight fillers arranged neatly along the space.

He uses giant planters to create a strong visual impact on the patio. Lightweight fillers like foam or empty plastic bottles reduce the weight at the bottom. This helps keep the planters stable without making them too heavy to move.

8) Climbing vines on lattice fences

Back patio with climbing vines growing on wooden lattice fences and various plants arranged around the space.

Climbing vines add greenery and privacy to lattice fences. They grow upward, covering bare spaces with leaves and flowers.

Plants like clematis or morning glories work well for this. They create shade and soften fence lines for a natural look.

Using lattice helps support the vines as they grow. This also makes the patio feel cozier without taking up floor space.

For ideas on good vines and care, see climbing vine recommendations on lattice fences.

9) Potted herbs like rosemary and thyme

A back patio decorated with multiple pots of rosemary and thyme herbs arranged on shelves and tables surrounded by outdoor furniture and natural elements.

Potted herbs such as rosemary and thyme add both greenery and scent to a back patio. They are easy to care for and can thrive in pots with good sunlight. These herbs also offer fresh ingredients for cooking right outside the door.

Using pots allows for easy rearrangement to suit the patio space and style. For more ideas on herb garden pots, see container herb garden ideas.

10) Flower boxes with spillover petunias

Back patio decorated with flower boxes filled with overflowing colorful petunias and outdoor furniture.

Petunias work well in flower boxes because their blooms spill over the edges. This creates a soft, full look that brightens up any patio space. They thrive in sunny spots and need regular watering. Using different colors adds extra interest and charm. For tips on growing petunias, see petunias in containers.

11) Pest-repelling marigolds and citronella plants

Back patio decorated with vibrant marigold and citronella plants in pots around seating areas.

Marigolds release a scent that helps keep mosquitoes and other insects away. They add bright color to any back patio.

Citronella plants are known for their mosquito-repelling oils. They work well in pots and containers near seating areas to reduce bug presence. For more, see mosquito repellent plants ideas.

12) DIY living plant wall installations

Back patio with twelve different living plant wall installations and outdoor furniture surrounded by green plants.

They create a green, natural focal point on the patio. Living plant walls can be made with simple wooden frames or planters. Some even include self-watering systems for easy care. Instructions for building one can be found in detailed videos like this DIY living plant wall tutorial.

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