The kitchen may be the heart of a home, but for most of us, the patio is the center of the backyard. Whether we use it as a place for conversation, a second dining room, or simply an outdoor oasis to relax and unwind in, a thoughtfully planned border will bring out the best in this important piece of real estate. The right mix of plants will engage the senses, ground a patio without closing it in, and in larger yards, provide a lush transition to the lawn and gardens beyond.

To provide quiet contrast to colorful perennials, add some structural workhorses. Low-growing shrubs in the 2- to 5-foot range are ideal for the job—and for adding foliage color or scent. To avoid overwhelming the space, consider dwarf versions of classic favorites like ‘Newport Dwarf’ escallonia (Escallonia ‘Newport Dwarf’, Zones 7–9) or dwarf myrtle (Myrtus communis ‘Compacta’, Zones 9–11).

Creating the illusion of walls helps define a patio, especially one that is used for specific functions, such as dining or conversation.

Patios are the ultimate spot to appreciate a planting bed’s complexity and beauty from a close perspective. If privacy or protection from afternoon sun is required, place screening trees and shrubs as far out on the perimeter as possible to keep from crowding the patio and to relinquish prime growing space to perennials and shrubs that shine when viewed at close range. Opt for small-scale trees with a more open branching pattern instead of those with dense canopies. Plants like ‘Shishigashira’ Japanese maple (Acer palmatum ‘Shishigashira’, Zones 5–9) and ‘Ray Hartman’ California lilac (Ceanothus ‘Ray Hartman’, Zones 8–10) provide dappled shade and seasonal interest with flowers or foliage.

Creating the illusion of walls helps define a patio, especially one that is used for specific functions, such as dining or conversation. Sheared, dense plants, however, can have the undesirable effect of cutting off the patio from the rest of the garden, inadvertently creating a cramped feel. To add a sense of enclosure without crowding, try tall, airy “see through” plants, such as sea holly (Eryngium spp. and cvs., Zones 3–9) or ‘Alcazar’ torch lily (Kniphofia ‘Alcazar’, Zones 6–9).

Pockets planted along a patio’s edge serve as an important transitional space. A mix of creeping ground covers and mounding perennials will visually extend the patio’s size while providing a living transition to taller plants farther back. Fragrant ground-cover herbs that can handle some foot traffic, such as Roman chamomile (Chamaemelum nobile, Zones 6–9), are a particularly attractive choice, releasing scent when stepped on and allowing for maintenance access to plantings beyond.

Tip: Target Your Ambience

Tailor your plant choices to reflect when and how your patio is used the most. if evening eating and entertaining are important, consider including plants with chartreuse or silver foliage that reflect the moonlight. if hot or humid summers make fall the best time to enjoy the patio, mix in ornamental grasses or shrubs that sport fall color.

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