How to Landscape Around a Deck With Lattice

Position vines to climb on latticework boards placed around the deck. Lightweight, deciduous vines such a cardinal climber, passion flower or sweet potato are rapidly growing specimens that won't weigh down lightweight lattice. Heavier vines such as honeysuckle and English ivy, however, don't die back during winter and can overcome the latticework support, causing it to bend or even break.

Locate vines in containers at selected intervals around the deck. Containers provide more controlled growth and provide the ability to move cold-sensitive specimens inside during winter. Cascading perennial flowers, such as thrift or creeping sedum, can accompany vines in the containers for color and texture.

Plant a border of coordinating shrubs to complement lattice walls and skirting. If space allows, add shrubs that bloom at different times of year, encouraging continued flowering. Painted latticework serves as an attractive backdrop for shrub borders.

Hide the latticework border with flower plantings of various heights and widths. Allow only portions of the lattice to peek through swirls of color for an interesting effect. Add flowers offering evening fragrance, such as brugmansia, phlox, lilacs and four o’clocks, to extend enjoyment of the outdoor deck during mild evenings.