Although we love our sunshine in the Pacific Northwest, there are many amazing plants that can be grown in full shade. Using a little creativity, you can transform a shady space in your landscape into a thriving shade garden.
Shade comes in various forms, ranging from light to deep shade. Really look at the light conditions of your garden to figure out the type of shade it receives, as this will influence the plants that will thrive there. Also keep in mind that when the foliage of deciduous trees is gone, the shade garden will be more exposed to weather.
Shade gardens can offer an extensive palette of foliage colors, textures, and shapes. Consider incorporating a mix of shade-loving perennials like hostas, ferns, and astilbes. These plants bring visual interest and thrive in the cooler, shaded corners of your garden.
Shade Garden Plants for the Pacific Northwest
- Hellebores (Lenten rose)
- Bleeding Heart
- Pacific Trillium
- Brunnera
- Bergenia
- Hosta
- Bugbane
- Siberian Bugloss
- Oakleaf Hydrangeas
- Sweet Box
- Gold Dust Plant
- Oceanspray
- Sword Fern
- Astilbe
- Hetz’s Japanese holly
- Toad lily
Regular maintenance is key to a thriving shade garden. There are some tasks that are slightly different from those required of their sun-loving counterparts.
- Keep an eye on moisture levels so the plants are receiving the right amount of water but not too much. Leaves that remain wet after water for long periods of time in the shade can get fungal diseases. Avoid watering in the late afternoon.
- Prune any overgrown plants and remove any diseased foliage promptly.
- Mulching is important for a healthy shade garden. A layer of organic mulch helps retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate the soil temperature. It can also help with drainage to avoid overly wet conditions.
A shade garden can be a wonderful space for relaxation and an eye-catching addition to your landscape. Let our experienced team help you design and install a shade garden. Call for a free estimate today!