Best Plants for a Shady Border

Nobody has the perfect garden and shade can often be seen as a drawback. But with careful planning and a thoughtful use of plants that shaded area can be a permanent year-long delight. (For photos of suggested plants see images below and click to enlarge.)

Research Plants for Shaded Area

It is very enjoyable to research the kind of plants that are shade-loving. Study books and magazines, and surf the Internet for inspiration. Go to the local garden centre and seek advice from the experts and whilst there, take photographs of any plants that might be on show.

Think about the position of the shady border – does it back on to a tree, a wall or a hedge? These factors can influence the plants chosen and the amount of organic matter to be dug into the soil.

Make a Plan of the Shady Border

As with any area in the garden which requires planting, the next thing to do is make a plan of the shady border area. A simple drawing made on squared-up paper which roughly reflects the shape and measurements of the actual border is a good place to begin.

Then think about the planting scheme. Consider foliage, texture and flower to make the shaded area interesting. There will be a limited colour palette but this doesn’t mean that the area has to be boring. Also, bear in mind height and ground coverage. Sketch into the plan where the chosen plants will be. Obviously the larger plants will be positioned at the back or side, depending on the line of sight. Plants grouped in threes or fives make a more interesting display than single species dotted here and there.

Plant Suggestions for a Shady Border

Here are some suggestions for plants suitable for a shady garden area. Height and spread are given so that gardeners can decide on the number of plants to buy.

Helleborus orientalis – This is also called the Lenten Rose. It flowers in late winter and early spring with purple, white or pale green flowers. (Height x spread 45cm. See pic below and click to enlarge.)

Dryopteris erythrosora – A part-evergreen fern very useful in the border. (Height 50cm x spread 35cm. See pic below and click to enlarge.)

Sarcococca confusa – Evergreen shrub which produces small, white scented flowers. (Height 1.8m x spread 1m)

Geranium macrorrhizum – This plant is low-growing with a faintly unpleasant smell. However, the pretty pink flowers which provide autumn colour make up for this! (Height 50cm x spread 60cm).

Geranium phaeum – The deep purple flowers mean it is also called Mourning Widow. It flowers in May. (Height 75cm x spread 50cm. See pic below and click to enlarge.)

Honorine Jobert – This is an Anemone hybrid with white flowers and yellow centre which bloom in late summer. Leaves are semi-evergreen and it will slowly spread over the ground. (Height 90cm x spread 60cm. See pic below and click to enlarge.)

Luzula Nivea – Also known as Woodrush, this is a grass-like evergreen which spreads slowly and produces small white flowers in summer. (Height x spread 45cm. See pic below and click to enlarge.)

Things to Consider When Planting a Shady Border

Here are a few tips to consider before planting.

• Prepare the ground well before planting the shady border. Adding organic matter gives plants a great start.
• When buying geraniums always purchase the largest and strongest. They can be divided straight away, making two plants for the price of one.
• Position the plants, still in their pots, according to your plan but remember this is only a guide.
• Add bonemeal, general-purpose or slow release granular fertiliser to each planting hole to give the root system a flying start.
• Sprinkle organic mulch around the plants to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
• Water in the new plants. Keep an eye on the plants and water regularly, especially during the first season when they are getting established.

The shady border will take about two years to reach its full potential. It will fill out and become a beautiful, subtle addition to the garden with a variety of colour, shape and texture.

See Also:

• Garden Composting Without Peat – How to find or make compost that doesn’t depend on dwindling peat reserves.
• How to Grow Tomatoes in a Hanging Basket – How to choose varieties, plant and position tomatoes for a hanging basket display.
• Kew Garden’s Millenium Seed Bank – Visit Kew’s State-of-the-Art Seed Bank and see how future seeds are being preserved.