Place flowerbeds at prominent locations such as entrance steps or enclose the patio with beds. Size the bed appropriately to the patio but allow a minimum of 3 feet for flowers.
Slope soil away from the patio. Add landscape edging between the patio and the bed as well as between the lawn and the bed.
Choose flowers within a limited color palette and vary the heights and textures. Include scented flowers in the beds. Plant at a distance from the patio to protect the flowers from foot traffic.
Water carefully so that soil isn't splashed on the patio. Maintain the beds regularly to encourage showy displays.