The Ideal Combination Of Potted Plants And Composite Decking

By Author: Damien Alcock
Total Articles: 143
Comment this article

Homeowners all over the world are interested in this amazing decorating trend. Whether you prefer vibrant flowers or fun foliage, potted plants are guaranteed to give your home a dramatic look. And guess? You can place them indoors or outdoors, depending on your personal preference. If you like to put your potted plants outside, the terrace is the perfect place for them.
 
No terrace is truly complete without a little greenery.


 Now here's the thing. Potted plants are definitely the first choice when decorating a porch. They bring life, color, and a fresh atmosphere to any outdoor space. However, if you happen to have wooden floors, there is one small caveat to consider: moisture. Wood and excessive moisture are not necessarily best friends.


 But there's a smart solution for you: composite decking. It's like superhero flooring when it comes to potted plants. Synthetic decks are built to withstand the same humidity as the champions, making them the perfect complement to your fellows.


 This article explains ...
... why potted plants and composite decking are the perfect match for your garden.


What exactly is composite decking?


Composite decking refers to flooring made from 100% polymeric materials or a mixture of organic wood and virgin resin. Some chemical additives are also included in the mix to improve its quality and the sheets are often packaged. The properties of this material make it ideal for flooring and you can know its top quality by its extensive use. The benefits also make it the right choice for modern homes.


Why is Composite Decking the Best Material for Potted Plants?


Composite flooring is the ideal material for flooring. Not only are they sturdy enough to withstand the pressure, but they are intricately finished and can give your yard its best designs. Plus, composite decking is the perfect backdrop for potted plants, and here's why.


 MOLD RESISTANCE: There are occasional puddles of water under your flower pots, especially during the wet months. Water can often create an environment for mold to grow. These molds, in turn, can penetrate your flooring and compromise its structural integrity. This is only possible for traditional wood panels, as composite can be quite challenging. It not only limits the formation of molds but also resists their attack.


 Less Likely to Stain: Flooring offers a range of interesting surface patterns that easily enhance the aesthetics of your outdoor space. However, the glamor can be short-lived as moisture build-up beneath the flower pots wreaks havoc on these surfaces, leaving unsightly stains on traditional wooden planks. Fortunately, composite panels are born with a non-porous nature, which greatly increases their resistance to stains.


 Crack & Warping Resistant: The occasional sun that hits your porch makes it great for plant growth, but it comes at a cost. When traditional wood planks are exposed to UV rays, they crack over time. But composite flooring is UV stable, eliminating the risk of cracking and warping. Termite resistant: Potted plants need constant watering to stay alive, which can often create a wet puddle on your patio. This moisture can cause problems, attracting pests like termites to your wood. That's one less thing to worry about with composite decking because it's hygroscopic, which termites love.


Plants to Use with Composite Decking 


While composite decking may be best for outdoor plants, it's important to note that not all plants are ideal for this combination.


 Here are some of the best plants for your composite deck.


 Herbs and vegetables: Herbs and vegetables often make up the majority of potted plants in and around the home. That's partly because they're one of the most used things in the home. Since your porch is an extension of your home, you might consider growing vegetables and herbs as potted plants on your patio.


 Architectural Trees: If you are looking for the extra beauty these plants bring to your porch rather than functionality, then architectural trees may be your best bet. Architectural trees have a distinct shapes and structures and can greatly enhance or add a dramatic look to a space. They are characterized by ornamental evergreens and often have an unusual but interesting shape. Flowering Plants: When it comes to aesthetics, there is no other plant that can give you more than the flowers bring. Not only do they look great, but they also attract colorful butterflies to add vibrancy to your exterior. 


Growing Potted Plants on Composite Decking: Expert Advice


If you're considering growing plants in pots outdoors, there's more to it than choosing the right plants for your composite deck. While this is a great start, there are still a few more techniques you need to use to make it worthwhile.


 Here are some tips for growing potted plants on your composite deck.


 If you want a more cohesive look to accentuate your appearance, it's best to use similarly colored pots or planters.


 Find out how much sunlight your plants need and use patio furniture or umbrellas to create shade and regulate UV exposure.


Place your plant's side by side for easier watering.


Larger plants are more stable and should be on the edge of your patio, with smaller plants placed inside where they can be safe. 


How to Keep Plants Away from Your Composite Decking


Damp pools and mold growth are the biggest problems with potted plants. If you're not careful, these conditions can damage your composite decking. To avoid this, you can apply the following tips.


Use a pot holder or stand to elevate your planters and prevent puddles from forming underneath them.


Allow good air circulation around your deck to prevent mold growth. Rotate the placement of small pots between waterings to give your yard time to dry out.


Use quality composite decking boards for your deck to ensure its durability.


Invest in good quality soil and use pots with built-in dishes to prevent water from entering your yard.


Conclusion
Whether you're a nature lover or just want to spruce up your home, potted plants offer a practical solution. But you may want to use composite panels for your yard if you want to put plants outside. This article discussed some expert tips for growing potted plants on your composite deck.