Shade Gardens
How to plant a Shade Garden
Dry Shade
The range of dry shade loving plants is very narrow, but, with thoughtful use, a very nice effect can be achieved by contrasting the foliage forms and planting in bold drifts. The bonus for a dry shade garden is that it will be virtually maintenance free!
Moist Shade
Mass plant the perennials and bulbs in bold drifts for both a natural and a classical look. Remember, flowering plants will require more light and are best planted on the edges of a shade garden.
Plants for a Shade Garden
The following plant lists are a guide to getting started. Many more varieties are available. Observation of what grows well in your area is suggested before making the final selection.
Hedges:
Climbers for adding another dimension and atmosphere:
Annuals to highlight focal points in the garden or containers:
Shrubs for screening, background and shelter:
- Azalea Acuba
- Camellia Chinese Lantern (Abutilon)
- Daphne Christmas Box (Sarococca)
- Fuchsia Holly (Ilex)
- Hydrangea Lily of Valle (Pieris)
- Leucothoe Mahonia
- Maples Nandina
- Rhododendron Viburnum japonicum
- Hedges Buxus
- Griselinia
- Port Wine Magnolia (Michelia figo)
Perennials for texture and colouring in DRY SHADE:
- Agapanthus Aspidistra
- Bergenia Clivia
- Euphorbia Mondo grass
- Reinga Lily (Arthropodium)
- Spider plant (Chlorophytum)
Perennials for texture and colouring in MOIST SHADE:
- Astilbe Bear’s Breeches ( Acanthus) Begonia Bugle plant (Ajuga)
- Cyclamen Ferns
- Fuchsias Helleborus (Winter Rose)
- Hosta Japanese Anemone
- Liriope (Turf Lily) Primula obconica
- Violets
Bulbs including corms and tubers:
Landscaping and Accessories
- Pots - Terracotta, glazed, stone
- Ornaments - Statues (informal or classical), sculptures, seat.
- Paths - Pavers, Crazy paving, bricks, gravel.
- Boundaries - Brick and stone walls, wrought iron, hedges.
When to Plant
Autumn is the best time to plant shrubs and get the roots well established before the harsh conditions of summer. The widest range of perennials is available in spring and summer. Planting can be done whenever plants are available provided regular watering is carried out in summer.
After Care
Shrubs require trimming back after flowering.
Perennials need dead heading (spent flowers removed) during flowering and then trimming back when flowering is complete.
Water as required in summer.
Mulch in early spring and autumn.
Feed with Tui General Garden fertiliser in spring.
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