This Month's How-To:
Shade Gardening

In the landscaper’s vocabulary, shade generally refers to the amount of sunlight received by a plant, though occasionally, it can refer to an actual location. For instance, "Let's think of an idea for what to put in the shade." Shady locations are notoriously difficult to plant, but they don't have to be. By choosing the right plants and developing a plan for the space suitable for the conditions of the site, you can easily create a lush oasis in the shade.

Shady plants are too often thought of as being dull, broad leafed, and relatively colorless. This is far from the truth- shady plants come in just as many bright colors and interesting forms as their full-sun counterparts. From the feathery Astilbe with its vibrant red or pink blossoms, to the glasslike Liriope and its purple stalks of flowerets, there is a fit for every texture called for in landscape design.

However, it is especially important in shade gardens to make sure that the soil conditions are ideal. Areas with many pine trees generally have more acidic soil and therefore plants that prefer soil with a lower pH should be planted. This level should be checked by taking a soil sample (which Chris Orser Landscaping, Inc can perform). Additionally, the drainage in the soil is an important factor in determining which plants can live in shady spots. You can check this yourself by digging a hole and filling it with water. If there is still water in it after an hour, only plants that tolerate soil with poor drainage should be planted.