- A shade garden is one that is planted under a tree, or next to other plants or buildings where the sunlight doesn't typically reach the top or roots of plants. Shade gardens are full of colorful green plants that flourish in the darkest locations, providing a welcoming splash of life in once-desolate locations where most plants can't grow.
- Some shade gardens are designed to wrap around trees and buildings where there is little to no sunlight. Perennials and annual flowers are scattered about the shade garden, creating rich green leafy textures that flourish with no sun, and annual plants with bright pinks and oranges that electrify the scenery.
- When shopping at a nursery, look for plants that love the shade or partial shade. Most shade plants have bright green leaves or foliage. Hostas flourish in shade gardens, while ferns grow in the poorest shade conditions. With some shade-loving annuals, such as begonias, impatiens and violas, can be planted each year, a splash of color gives the shade garden a welcoming look.
- Shade gardens are popular in northern climates where the seasons tend to change. Perennials thrive in many climates, making them stars in shade gardens. Shade gardens flourish in cool areas, and shade-loving plants don't tolerate high heat well. Even though shade gardens prefer cool areas in which to grow, they must be watered on a regular basis to keep roots moist.
- Bright colors and dark foliage define the shade garden. Clear-cut, defined leaves with colorful blooms that last for weeks are some of the highlights and features of shade gardens. Many shade-loving plants have a lightly perfumed bloom pleasant throughout the season.
- Shade gardens improve the overall landscape of the yard, increase property values and add curb appeal. Shade gardens create a subtle beauty to barren areas such as the base of large shrubs, near or under a deck, under a group of trees where grass won't grow and around mailboxes.
