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Creating a shade garden can be a rewarding project that transforms a dull, shadowy area into a lush, vibrant space. Using mail order plants offers a convenient way to access a wide variety of shade-loving species that might not be available locally. This article provides expert tips to help you design and maintain a beautiful shade garden with mail order plants.
Understanding Shade and Selecting Plants
Before selecting plants, assess the shade conditions in your garden. Is it full shade, partial shade, or dappled sunlight? Different plants thrive under different light levels. Mail order suppliers often specify the light requirements for their plants, making it easier to choose suitable species.
Types of Shade-Loving Plants
- Ferns: Such as lady fern and maidenhair fern, perfect for moist, shady spots.
- Hostas: Known for their attractive foliage and low maintenance.
- Astilbes: Provide colorful plumes and thrive in moist shade.
- Heucheras: Also called coral bells, offering vibrant leaf colors.
- Solomon’s Seal: Elegant arching stems with bell-shaped flowers.
When ordering, verify that the plants are suitable for your specific shade conditions and climate zone. Mail order catalogs often include detailed descriptions and care instructions.
Design Tips for a Shade Garden
A well-designed shade garden balances plant height, texture, and color. Consider the following tips:
Layer Your Plants
Arrange taller plants at the back or center, with medium and low-growing plants in front. This creates depth and visual interest.
Focus on Foliage
Since flowers may be limited in shade, emphasize foliage with different textures, colors, and shapes to add vibrancy.
Incorporate Pathways and Features
Use natural stone, mulch, or stepping stones to create pathways. Adding a bench, birdbath, or sculpture can enhance the garden’s appeal.
Planting and Care Tips
Mail order plants arrive with specific care instructions. Follow these guidelines to ensure successful establishment:
Preparing the Site
Improve soil drainage and add organic matter to enrich the soil. Shade gardens often benefit from consistently moist, well-drained soil.
Planting Tips
- Plant at the depth specified on the label or catalog.
- Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil.
- Apply mulch to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.
Maintenance Practices
- Water regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Divide or prune plants as needed to maintain health and shape.
- Fertilize with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in spring.
With proper planning and care, your mail order shade garden can flourish, providing a peaceful retreat filled with lush foliage and subtle beauty.