How can I decorate my Deck?

I think you'll find some good inspiration here! http://www.hometalk.com/categories/outdoor-living/decks/decor

I have a balcony and I just purchased bamboo plants. The long tall ones. The person I purchased them from told me he never watered them in winter. These

suckers are now 7 feet tall. I live in New York.

My current deck is somewhat larger, but it replaces a deck we had that was similar in size with stairs to the lawn being opposite the door-wall from the kitchen, effectively dividing the deck in half. The walls of the house and the railing, floor of deck were all clear coated natural wood. All the color came from the décor and flowers. We had a built in bench on one side at seating height (15" high) that ran the length of the deck . I used a pile of colorful pillows to soften it. (Stored in the garage when not in use). My hubby built a custom sized box for one end to serve as an end table, it fit right over the bench raising the height to 26"and could slide across to where ever it was needed. (It had a flip open ceramic tile top for storing small stuff inside). The opposite side of the deck held the BBQ and a fold away table to hold cooking supplies. A recycled bakers rack had a spot right by the door. We also had a cedar gate leg table we would place in front of the bench for dinning. (Spends the winter in the garage). For sun control we used a shade sail and a lattice screen for privacy. Window boxes on alternating sides of the railing filled with plants gave more color and life to the space. (Annuals and artificial vines meant no winter care). Last step was outdoor (painted tin) artwork hung on the wall of the house and lattice screen with candle lanterns and solar lights for a finishing touch. When the decks age started showing, I got a sisal rug to use until we replaced the deck. (Garage sale find $12.00 + stencils and paint to camouflage a stain and give it a bright shout of color).

Thank you soooo much for your response. I do want colour and flowers. We're new to Lexington, and so far I can't even get someone to paint the interior! It's challenging, and I appreciate your help, j

Thank you...that's a little intimidating.....like an idiot planting mint in a garden, and not putting the roots in a tin container!.....thank you again....I want colour and warmth.j