What would look good around a deck instead of lattice?

Question

We are building a 12' x 24' deck that is on a slight hill. The end near the house (this is a detached, free-standing deck) will be about a foot off the ground. The other end of the deck will be about 3 feet off the ground.

I was thinking about putting river rock under the entire deck (which could cost a bit). My wife was thinking of lattice all the way around the deck... I dislike the look of lattice to enclose the space beneath a low-to-the-ground deck.

Have you seen any other ideas that will look really nice?

Another related question regarding some of the answers I have gotten: I have heard that if you are not using maintenence free materials (basically plastic), that it is not a good idea to enclose the deck underneath because moisture gets in and will eventually rot the deck from the underside. Are there any professionals that can verify or deny this?

Answer 1

Close it in solid with PT 2X4's cut to lenght..cheaper and easier than rock, stain and finish..very pretty. Plant in front of it and you are finished. You could also use Cedar fencing slats (1/6) cut to length..very pretty. Good luck

Answer 2

Fist off, I agree about the lattice BEING put there--we have potatoes that make an excellent cover over the latticework. They make beautiful, HUGE, heart-shaped leaves and that's all. OR Hummingbird Vine makes tiny little vines that put out a trumpet-like flower on the top, when it reaches to the sun, that Hummingbirds like (I hope you have had more h'birds than we have).

Thrift,or Phlox, is an excellent ground cover,...if you decide NOT to cover with lattice.

Answer 3

How about some shrubs or similar bushes that could be trimmed as desired or climbing rose bushes with individual fan-like lattice? You could start with smaller shrubs or plants on the lower end and gradually go up in their size as the deck becomes higher. Good Luck.

Answer 4

Tomatoes. Stake them up around the deck. Much better looking than lettuce.