What Are The Best Plants For A Shaded Garden?

Summer is the time when most people love to be outdoors, enjoying the sunshine and fresh air. But what about those shady spots in your garden that never see the sun's rays? Don't let these areas go to waste! There are plenty of plants that thrive in shade and can bring some color and life to those forgotten areas. First up on the list of best shade garden plants are ferns. Ferns are a classic choice and for good reason. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes and can add a lush and calming atmosphere to your garden. The ostrich fern is a favorite for its tall and feathery appearance, while the maidenhair fern has delicate fronds that can give a more feminine touch. Another great option for your shade garden is hostas. These plants come in various sizes and shapes, from lovely hearts to twisted and curled leaves. The variegated, green and white hostas are popular options, but don't overlook the blue-tinted varieties. If you want to add some color to your shade garden, consider planting astilbe. These plants produce plumed flowers with colors that range from white, pink, red and lavender. Astilbes offer a burst of extra color and can make a statement in any shady spot. The bleeding heart is another classic shade garden plant, producing drooping heart-shaped flowers in early spring. Unusual looking, the plant has a somewhat romantic feel that can be incorporated into any garden design. For a more exotic look, try the Japanese painted fern. The silver and green fronds are perfect for bringing a touch of elegance to your garden. And for container gardening, the Japanese forest grass can add a delicate touch of color and texture to any container. Another great option in the shade is the heuchera plant, also known as the coral bells. These plants produce small bell-shaped flowers with colors that range from pale pink to deep red, and burgundy. The leaves also vary in color, from chartreuse to deep purple. Are you looking for a plant to hang in a shady spot? The Boston fern is a great option for a hanging basket. These ferns drape beautifully and add movement and texture to any space. Another plant that can add some height to your garden design is the hellebore plant. These plants produce delicate, bell-shaped flowers in a range of colors, from white and pink to deep purples and blacks. They also give charming winter interest to any landscape design. If you're interested in adding some edibles to your shady garden, consider planting some herbs. Mint and parsley, in particular, can thrive in the shade. Mint can add some fresh fragrance and flavor to teas or cocktails, while parsley works great as a garnish or a seasoning. Another option could be a couple of gooseberry bushes. These plants thrive in shade and are perfect for pies, jams and making refreshing drinks. These are just a few examples of the many plants that can thrive in shady areas. Some key points to keep in mind when designing a shade garden are to make sure the soil is well-draining and not too nutrient-rich, as most shade-loving plants don't require a lot of fertilizer. Also, don't be afraid to mix and match plants to create a diverse and textured look. In conclusion, although it may seem challenging, designing a shade garden can be a rewarding experience. By choosing the right plants, your shady garden can be just as vibrant and colorful as a sun-drenched one. So, get creative and start planting! Landscape Ideas: Best Solutions for Shade