Shade Garden Care - Yahoo Voices

Not all yards have loads of sunshine. Trees and buildings can cast shadows and while that shade isgood on a hot day, it can make it challenging when growing a garden. Still, the prevalence of shadedoes not mean you can't plant. Many types of flowers, trees and plants grow beautifully with just alittle light. A successful gardening experience begins with an accurate evaluation of the light in yourproposed garden. Knowing the difference between partially and densely shaded will help youmanage and enjoy your garden.

What to plant in your shade garden?

According to the Garden Helper, "The success of your shade garden will of course depend on morethan just choosing the right plants." You'll need flower and plant varieties that don't just tolerateshade, they should love it. You can't force plants to "adapt" to the shade. (You'll end up with a bunchof dead plants.) Typically flowers like hydrangea and begonia do well in the shade. Green plants likethe coleus and creeping Jenny are perfect for beds. A shade garden is naturally moist so you mustchoose plants that like dampness. It's a good idea to consult your local nursery on the best shadeplants for your area.

When do I water a shady garden?

If your yard doesn't receive natural precipitation in a week, water it. Your garden needs a goodsoaking with at least 1-inchof water distributed in the morning. If you water in the evening, youryard could get moldy. When plants show yellow leaves or look a little droopy, they need more water.During periods with little rain or high humidity, water twice a week. A soaker hose is a goodinvestment for a shade garden.

Keep the garden clean.

Unfortunately, pests like rodents and insectslike shade gardens too. You'll have to removedead leaves and any trash every two weeks.(Bugs love to hide under old leaves.) Mulchthe plants to protect your plants frommunching critters. You need to fertilize thegarden at least once a year with 2-inches ofcompost. Keep air moving in your garden bykeeping trees and bushes trimmed once ayear.

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