You may think that if your only option for a garden is a shady
area, you may not be able to create a garden. If you use shade
loving plants, however, it is very possible. Hostas and ferns
are perfect options for shady areas. They add grace and charm to
any garden area, and their foliage is beautiful.
Since other plants might not do well in the shade with the hostas
and ferns, you can compliment them by adding elements such as a
statuary, stone bench, brick wall, or birdbath. The deep greens
of the ferns and hostas will work well visually with the stone or
brick accessories. You will love relaxing in your shady area!
Garden
Since the area will be in the shade, it will hold moisture longer
after rain or in the mornings, so creating a cobblestone or brick
path will help to keep your feet clean and dry. A natural bark
path is another option, especially if the garden is among trees.
The brick or tiles should be used for formal gardens, but more
informal gardens will look good with pebbles or paving stones.
A water feature is a very appealing addition to your shade
garden. It will remind you of a natural stream, and you will
feel as if you are in the wild, where the ferns and hostas
naturally grow. It doesn't have to be expensive to add this
feature, as it can be as simple as a reflecting pool.
If you use some boulders in your shade garden, mosses and lichens
will look great growing on them and will thrive in the shady
area.
To add some contrast and diversity to the garden, some of the
hostas should have variegated foliage, with cream and gold
colors. When placed in front of the dark greens of the other
plants, they will stand out and really show how green the rest of
the garden is. The colors will likely match those of the stone
elements that you add, whether it's a bench, birdbath, or
anything else.
Woodland wildflowers should bloom well, even in the shade. The
colors of these will look great against the other dark colors.
Be sure to sprinkle seeds for both early ad late blooming plants,
so something is always blooming. Some early bloomers are crested
irises and creeping phlox. Examples of late bloomers are
goldenrod and mountain anemones.
It can take some time to prepare the soil and design where the
hardscape elements of the garden will go, but once everything is
in place and planted, the maintenance of your shade garden will
be low. Ferns like the classic Boston fern will be a great addition to your landscape, whether
it's your only option or you have it just in the shady part of a
full garden landscape.
The Boston fern plant has been a favorite since the 1900's. In fact ferns are making a comeback. learn more about this classic plant which has been improved at http://www.plant-care.com/boston-fern.html