Many homeowners think underutilized shaded spaces are limitations in landscaping. But with thoughtful planning, they can become alluring retreats with lush foliage, delicate blooms, and a tranquil atmosphere. If you’re considering creating one, let’s explore the different shades and design tips you can implement.
Understanding the Degrees of Shade
Shaded lots often have varying light conditions, and understanding these distinctions is crucial for choosing plants and designing the entire space. Here’s a breakdown of the types of shade:
- Deep or Full Shade: These cool, moist areas under dense trees or on the northern sides of buildings. They receive zero sunlight, reducing the solar energy available for photosynthesis and limiting your plant choices.
- Moderate Shade: These are areas in semi-open canopies with thin trees and minimal sunlight. In midsummer, they receive sunlight for approximately two to three hours daily.
- Dappled Shade: These areas have a soft interplay of light and shadow, created when sunlight filters through leaves. They’re often beneath trees with high canopies, like oaks or maples.
- Partial Shade: This shade is underneath trees with open canopies like pine or birch trees. Partially shady lots enjoy three to six hours of indirect sunlight daily, usually in the morning or late afternoon.
Picking the Right Blooms and Greenery
Canopied gardens flourish with plants that adapt well to low-light conditions. The most popular perennials and annuals for these environments include:
- Astilbes
- Bleeding Hearts
- Columbines
- Hostas
- Petunias
Use varieties that thrive with minimal sunlight, like ferns and crested irises, for groundcovers. Add shade-tolerant shrubs and trees like evergreens, Japanese maples, or dogwoods for more structure. Moreover, choose native varieties to suit the local climate and soil conditions.
Creating Visual Interest
Layering plants of different heights mimics the natural growth patterns in forests and woodlands and gives your garden more depth. Form the backdrop with taller shrubs and trees, followed by medium-sized plants and flowers. Then, add groundcovers to fill gaps and prevent soil erosion.
Additionally, create focal points and a dynamic view by combining plants with varying colors, shapes, sizes, and textures. For example, you can contrast bold, tropical hostas with delicate ferns or designate the most vibrant flowers as centerpieces.
Incorporate Hardscapes
Hardscaping brings functionality and character to canopied gardens. Add pathways with gravel, pavers, or stepping stones to guide movement and encourage exploration. Stone or wooden seats and patio areas invite relaxation while complementing the garden’s organic feel.
Embrace Nature’s Canopy With Shaded Landscaping
Creating a lush, shade garden is about embracing the unique beauty of low-light conditions. With proper planning and our landscape design and build services, you can make a shaded garden perfect for relaxing and connecting with nature. Discuss your project today with Blend Outdoor Design + Construction in Spokane Valley, WA.
