Richard Vande Sompel our expert of the day, writes:

Privacy and shade are essential elements for transforming a deck into an inviting outdoor living space. Climbing vines trained over a sturdy arbor add a measure of welcome shade that changes the character of a deck completely. With a combination of the right kinds of vines and a sturdy supporting structure a deck can be transformed from a hot and sunny space to be avoided to a a shady deck retreat. Even a simple trellis that hides an unappealing view can work to create an intimate enclosure, making the deck more appealing.

Vines also add a wonderful ambience to a deck because they have the ability to create an atmosphere of rich plant growth abundance. Decks can become amazing places with flowers and foliage spilling over railings, covering walls and downspouts and draping over an overhead arbor or pergola. That same arbor, a trellis or a fence thickly covered with vines, together with plantings of shrubs and other large landscape plants, can help to muffle noise from the outside world making the deck retreat seem even more secluded from the outside world.

Richard Vande Sompel our expert of the day, writes:

The problem with decks can often be that they are raised above ground level and therefore make homeowners and family members clearly visible to neighbors. Fences already in place may be too low to provide a practical amount of shielding.

There are alternatives that can be implemented to provide varying measures of privacy to deck occupants:

1. Stepping the deck down in stages can resolve the problem. If the house exit door occupies a lofty position, it would be possible to build a landing and stairs or a series of tiers that lead down to a main deck built low to the ground.

2. A well placed trellis, arbor or pergola that provides the skeleton for climbing plants or vines can be constructed to create an attractive but functional enclosure. Latticework can also be utilized to provide for the growth of those vines and climbing plants and add to privacy possibilities.

3. Planting border trees and shrubs is a simple but practical solution that will help to screen occupants of the deck from neighboring eyes. Hedges can easily be incorporated into the deck perimeter to provide the same sense of enclosure as railings.

Ellen Bell our expert of the day, writes:

Richard Vande Sompel our expert of the day, writes:

Decks should be positioned in the backyard in such a way as to gather as much sun as possible. However, they are most comfortable and enjoyable if they also provide access to shade.

Overhead structures such as pergolas, arbors and trellises do this while at the same time providing a sense of security and shelter on the deck. Outdoor structures such as these divide and define different deck areas and add a vertical dimension to the horizontal lines of a deck. These shade structures can serve several purposes at one time and can be modified as the needs of the family change over time.

Shade structures differ from solid roof construction in that they do not provide complete protection from rain and they allow the free circulation of air.

An arbor is a freestanding 3-dimensional structure made up of posts and overhead horizontal joists or sloping rafters that create the illusion of an outdoor room. It is specifically designed to provide a shaded space for the enjoyment of its occupants. It can also incorporate latticework to provide for the growth of vines and climbing plants. The latticework can also provide a measure of privacy from neighbors. Benches and other forms of freestanding seating can become an interior feature of the arbor and provide a refuge during a rain shower or a special area in which to find calm and quiet.

Ann Marier our expert of the day, writes:

Pergolas are open designed gazebos intended for garden areas; the pergola can be a free standing feature like a gazebo or are attached to the home like a deck. The open work ceiling of the area still provides shade while opening up the area to the sky; this can make small spaces seem larger.

Pergola garden designs all begin with the pergola itself. A pergola is a simple structure that only takes boards, a little cement, and wood screws or nails to build. There are several supporting columns which are planted in the ground using cement for stability and an open design ceiling that is either beams or a loose cross hatching design.

Staining is usually the most pressing maintenance required the pergola portion of the pergola garden design. To make a terrific comfortable pergola garden design choosing the plants, the motif, and the accessories will bring the space together.

The Plants

Because the areas are often floored with tiles, concrete, or gravel potted plants are often pergola garden design style of choice. Potted plant gardens are easy to begin and to maintain, as an added bonus they can be easier to control than a traditional garden, plants have a harder time spreading and weeds are easier to catch.

Greg Jacobs our expert of the day, writes:

Pergolas, patios and courtyards extend the living space of a home and add spaciousness. In Australia, the pergola is fast becoming the natural addition to any new or existing home. Pergolas not only provide protection from the elements all year round but they also allow us to entertain in comfort and style outdoors.

This article looks at design tips for enhancing pergola areas with potted plants, statues, water features, lighting, paving and outdoor furniture to help create an outdoor sanctuary for relaxation.

Ideal Plants for Pergolas - Climbing Plants

If considering the addition of a climbing plant to your pergola structure then the ornamental grape is an ideal choice. The ornamental grape is a deciduous climber that allows sunlight through in winter and much needed shade in summer. These plants are suited to a warm, dry climate and are thus perfect for Australian conditions.

Plant vines 1.2 metres apart for use on a pergola and 2 metres apart if growing them up a fence or trellis. You will need to train the vine up each pergola post to form a trunk and remove all lower growth as the vines develop. The best time to plant grape vines is in winter with fruit harvested between February and May. Regular pruning and trimming is required to produce grapes.

Richard Vande Sompel our expert of the day, writes:

Any deck that may look great and be situated in the exact best location, but if it is not comfortable, it will have limited use. Several factors affect deck comfort, some physical in nature and some psychological. These include protection from the elements of nature, the control of things that are considered annoyances and ergonomics.

In some cases the solutions are very simple. A wall that is placed correctly can do much to buffer wind and sound. Sun and glare can be reduced by a few yards of shade cloth. Other problems might not be solved so easily and may involve the addition of an entire structure to the deck such as a screened gazebo.

Some comforts are of a less physical nature. This is especially true for privacy. A simple solution could involve something as simple as pulling down a shade or it might require adding a trellis, arbor or pergola to the deck.

Ellen Bell our expert of the day, writes:

Whether you are an aspiring gardener or a regular green thumb, it’s important that you are well versed in the area of climbers. Climbing plants can be a gardener’s best friend, especially if you’re cramped for space. After all, why grow out when you can grow up? But knowing what types of climbers are out there and what support they need may require a little more thought. There are five primary ways that plants climb up a structure: tendrils, twining, scrambling, adhesive pads, and clinging stem roots. The following article will help you get acquainted with each type of climber and understand a little more about how and where they grow.

Tendrils:

Tendrils are tiny, spring-like growths that extend out from a plant’s stem. In fact, tendrils are almost like small stems of their own, expect that they are much finer and more pliable than the plant’s main stem. A tendril reaches out and grabs on to the supporting structure by curling and winding around it. Peas are a climber that utilizes tendrils in its upward growth. Climbing vines with tendrils will do best when they are given a narrow support to climb, preferably a diameter no greater than 1/4″. Simple trellises made of narrow strips of bamboo or other thin branches work quite well. Or, consider making your own trellis by constructing a frame and then using large mesh or netting inside it.