For shady gardens and fully covered areas of a garden, some gardeners may worry that they don’t have enough exposure to light in order to grow beautiful plants, shrubs, and trees. However, this is not the case. There are a wide variety of plants for shade that thrive in spots that are hidden from the sun or are partially covered during daylight hours. From colourful perennials to bushy shrubs, in this article we suggest several plants for shade that are perfect for your shaded garden.
Hosta
Also known as plantain lilies, hostas are popular shade-loving perennials known for their beautiful foliage. They come in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and colours, so you can find one to fit any spot in your garden. Hostas prefer moist, well-drained soil and will tolerate some sun, but they will look their best in full shade.
Ferns
Ferns are another great option for shady gardens. They come in a wide variety of sizes and types, and they add a touch of elegance and texture to any space. Ferns prefer moist, well-drained soil and should not be allowed to dry out.
Impatiens
Impatiens are a classic shade-loving annual that provides beautiful blooms all summer long. They come in a wide variety of colours, and they are relatively low-maintenance. Impatiens prefer moist, well-drained soil and should be deadheaded regularly to encourage more blooms.
Astilbe
Astilbe is a shade-loving perennial that produces beautiful, feathery flowers in shades of pink, purple, and white. They bloom in mid to late summer and add a touch of colour to shady borders. Astilbes prefer moist, well-drained soil and should be watered regularly during dry periods.
Coral Bells (Heuchera)
Coral bells are a shade-loving perennial that is known for its beautiful foliage. They come in a wide variety of colours, including red, purple, green, and yellow. Coral bells prefer moist, well-drained soil and should not be allowed to dry out.
How to care for your shade-loving plants
Shade-loving plants thrive in areas that get little direct sunlight. While they don’t need the scorching sun, they still require proper care to flourish. Here’s a breakdown of how to keep your shade-loving plants happy:
Light:
- Understand the shade levels: There are different degrees of shade – dappled shade (shifting light and shadows), partial shade (few hours of direct sun), and deep shade (minimal direct sun). Knowing the type of shade your area gets will help you choose the right plants. DIfferent types of plants and shrubs will have their own preference when it comes to the amount of shade and light, so it is important to read up on the variety you have chosen.
- Right plant, right shade: Not all shade-loving plants are created equal. Some prefer deeper shade, while others tolerate dappled shade or a few hours of morning sun. Research the specific light needs of your plants.
Watering:
- Moisture matters: Shade can sometimes equate to damp soil conditions. While shade-loving plants generally don’t need as much water as sun-loving ones, be mindful of underwatering. Check the soil regularly, especially during hot weather, and water deeply when the top inch feels dry.
- Avoid soggy soil: However, ensure the area has good drainage to prevent the roots from sitting in water.
Soil:
- Organic matter is key: Shade can sometimes slow down decomposition. Amending the soil with organic matter like fish fertiliser nz, compost or leaf mould helps improve drainage, aeration, and nutrient retention.
- Use layers of mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of your plants. Mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.
Additional tips:
- Fertilise: Since shade can limit growth, shade-loving plants generally don’t require heavy feeding. A balanced fertiliser applied sparingly during the growing season should suffice. Be sure to read into the plants you are growing and what they like best.
- Pest control: While less prone to sun damage, shade-loving plants can still be susceptible to pests. Keep an eye out for common issues and address them promptly using organic methods whenever possible.
