Ever look under your deck and wonder, “What am I supposed to do with that space?” You’re not alone. That shaded, often overlooked area beneath your deck can easily turn into a muddy eyesore or, with a little planning, a lush, low-maintenance landscaping feature that boosts your home’s curb appeal.
If you’re tired of staring at dirt and runoff, or fighting weeds where the sun doesn’t shine, this guide is for you. Let’s talk about smart under-deck landscaping Omaha solutions and the best shade plants Nebraska homeowners love for low-effort beauty.

Why Landscape Under Your Deck?
It’s easy to ignore the area beneath your deck but you shouldn’t. That shady space has a lot of potential. Here’s what thoughtful landscaping can do:
- Improve drainage and reduce mud
- Prevent erosion and weed growth
- Add year-round greenery and texture
- Create a functional area for storage or seating
- Increase property value and visual appeal
When done right, landscaping under your deck adds both beauty and purpose. And the best part? You can keep it low-maintenance with the right plant choices and layout.
Understanding the Challenges of Landscaping Under a Deck
Before we dive into plant ideas, let’s talk about the challenges you’re working with:
Limited Sunlight
Most under-deck areas are heavily shaded, especially if your deck is low to the ground or has boards without gaps. You’ll need plants that thrive in full or partial shade.
Poor Soil and Drainage
Runoff from the deck above often causes compacted or overly wet soil underneath. Drainage might need some tweaking with gravel, pavers, or ground cover that can handle it.
Height and Access
The height of your deck matters. If it’s very low, planting might be tricky or even impossible. Opt for decorative gravel or artificial turf instead. Higher decks give you more flexibility for shrubs, hostas, or even a bench or storage nook.

Best Low-Maintenance Shade Plants for Nebraska Yards
Now for the fun part. Here’s a list of proven shade-loving plants that do great under decks in Nebraska’s USDA zones (mainly 4b–5b). These are hardy, dependable, and require minimal upkeep once established.
Perennials
- Hostas
Big-leafed beauties that come in every shade of green (and variegated too). They love the shade and spread slowly. - Astilbe
Feathery plumes of color bloom in early summer. Great for damp soil and shadier spots. - Ferns (especially Ostrich or Lady Ferns)
Add soft texture and classic woodland vibes under decks. Tolerant of both shade and moisture. - Coral Bells (Heuchera)
Compact plants with colorful foliage (reds, purples, limes). Low water needs and perfect for the front of shaded beds. - Lungwort (Pulmonaria)
Weird name, awesome plant. Spotted leaves and pink/purple flowers. It thrives in cool, damp shade.
Ground Covers
- Sweet Woodruff
A mat-forming, fragrant ground cover that suppresses weeds and grows easily in shady areas. - Liriope (Lilyturf)
Tough as nails and grows in thick, grass-like clumps. Some varieties bloom with purple flower spikes. - Pachysandra
One of the most common under-deck ground covers. Handles dense shade and spreads out nicely.
Non-Plant Options for Ultra-Low-Maintenance Under-Deck Landscaping
Sometimes you want zero fuss. If you’re not keen on gardening, consider these under-deck landscaping alternatives:
- Decorative gravel or crushed stone: Excellent for drainage and keeps things tidy
- Artificial turf: Green without any upkeep, great for play areas
- Mulch beds with stepping stones: Looks clean and provides access
- Raised planters: If the soil’s bad or space is tight, use containers to create a tiered look
Mixing these with small plantings or shrubs can make the area pop without committing to full-blown gardening.

How to Prep the Area Under Your Deck for Landscaping
A little prep goes a long way. Here’s a quick checklist:
- Clear the area: Remove weeds, debris, and anything unwanted.
- Level the soil: Grade it slightly away from your home to prevent water pooling.
- Install a weed barrier: Landscape fabric helps block new weeds from sprouting.
- Add drainage if needed: French drains, gravel beds, or downspout redirection may help.
- Amend the soil: If planting, mix in compost to give roots a better start.
- Edge the area: Use metal or stone edging to keep mulch and soil in place.
Best Manufacturers for Landscape Materials and Planters
These top manufacturers provide high-quality materials perfect for under-deck landscaping, planters, and shade solutions.
Top Landscape Material & Planter Brands
- Vigoro: Affordable landscape fabric, edging, and mulch for any under-deck setup.
- Suncast: Durable plastic planters and deck boxes that hold up to weather and shade.
- Crescent Garden: Stylish planters with self-watering features, ideal for shade-tolerant plants.
- Permaloc: Strong and long-lasting landscape edging that keeps gravel and mulch cleanly contained.
- Rain Bird: Great irrigation solutions if you want to automate watering in shady spots.
Why Our Team Excels at Under-Deck Landscaping
Our team has been helping homeowners make the most of their outdoor spaces for years. From under-deck drainage to shade plant installation and design, we bring the expertise to do it right the first time. We understand how Nebraska’s climate impacts landscaping choices and drainage.
As with anything in life, you want to work with the best in order to get the best results, a choice that saves you money in the long run. If you’re ready to get your under-deck project tackled by our industry experts, contact us at (402) 369-5724 so we can get started.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best shade plants for under my deck?
Hostas, ferns, astilbe, and coral bells all do well in low-light and cool, shady environments.
Do I need to install drainage under my deck before landscaping?
If water pools under your deck, adding gravel or a drainage system is highly recommended before planting.
Can I use mulch under my deck?
Yes, but make sure it’s well-contained with edging and isn’t too close to wooden deck posts to avoid moisture issues.
Will plants grow if my deck gets zero sunlight?
Only the most shade-tolerant varieties will survive. Consider ground covers or artificial turf in full shade spots.
How do I keep weeds out from under my deck?
Use landscape fabric beneath mulch or gravel to block weed growth and reduce maintenance.
Is gravel a good option under decks?
Absolutely. It helps with drainage, blocks weeds, and gives a clean, professional look.
How often should I water plants under a deck?
It depends on your plant choice and rain levels. Some shade plants prefer moist soil, others like it dry, know what you plant.
Can I put furniture or storage under my deck, too?
Yes! Just make sure the area is dry and level. Gravel and pavers work great as a stable base.

Ready to Transform Your Under-Deck Space?
Don’t let that space under your deck go to waste. With the right mix of under-deck landscaping Omaha strategies, and shade plants, Nebraska homeowners rely on, you can create something that’s both beautiful and functional, with minimal upkeep.
Want help planning your under-deck landscaping or selecting the best plants for your space? We’re here to make it easy. Contact us at (402) 369-5724, and let’s start your deck installation project.