Designing a diverse and beautiful shade garden requires considering how to build visual interest using a combination of plants and other features (rocks, water, pathways), with different textures and — yes — even different colors, subtle though they may be.
While a sun-soaked garden is often abundant with brilliant colors, shade gardens are more understated. Yet, with careful consideration you can create something magnificent.
Tips for Planning & Planting Your Shade Garden
Keep in mind these factors as you build a vision for your shade garden:
- Color
- Texture
- Bloom time
- Height
- Soil quality
- Light intensity
- Care & maintenance
To hear Suzanne Balet Haight speak about her approach to shade gardening, including details about the points listed above, watch this video about shade gardens, which showcases her presentation at the Saratoga Springs Public Library. It includes example gardens with Suzanne pointing out elements of the design that make for an interesting landscape. Enjoy!