Creating a garden in the shade

28th December, 2022

Are you looking to add some life to your garden but don't have a lot of space or sunlight? A shade garden may be the perfect solution! Shade gardens can range from a few potted plants near your front door, to a lush oasis in your back garden. No matter the size, a shade garden is a beautiful and low-maintenance way to add some greenery to areas with a lack of sunlight.

Creating a shade garden is easier than you may think. The first step is to choose the right plants. There are a variety of plants that thrive in shady conditions, so do some research to find the ones that will work best in your space. Once you've selected your plants, the next step is to prepare the soil. Shade gardens need well-draining, nutrient-rich soil in order to thrive. If you're not sure about the quality of your soil, you can have it tested by a local garden service or by using a DIY soil testing kit.

After your soil is prepared, it's time to start planting! When planting a shade garden, be sure to give each plant enough room to grow. Overcrowding will only stress the plants and lead to poor growth. Once your plants are in the ground, give them a good watering and mulch around the base of each one. Mulch will help to retain moisture, reduce weeds and keep the soil cooler in summer.

With a little care and attention, your shade garden will be thriving in no time. Enjoy your new green space!

Here are five types of shade-tolerant plants:

Japanese Maples

These beautiful trees, renowned for their attractive leaves, are perfect for adding some colour and interest to a shaded patio. Japanese maples come in a wide range of colours and sizes. They look fantastic in the autumn months, as their leaves turn to vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows.

Hostas

Hostas are a classic choice for shady areas, and for good reason. They're easy to care for and come in a variety of colours and sizes. Watch out for slugs, as these love feasting on hostas.

Ferns

Ferns are another great option for shady gardens. They come in a wide range of varieties, so plant a few different types, or choose one and plant in a line for maximum impact.

Impatiens

Impatiens are a great choice for adding some seasonal colour to a shady area. They come in a wide range of colours and are easy to care for. Perfect for planters, hanging baskets and window boxes on north facing walls.

Begonias

Begonias are another great plant for window boxes and hanging baskets. This annual also comes in many colours, such as soft pink, peach and white.