How to Plant Shade Plants
Shade plants are a great way to fill in holes under trees, against fences and in other areas of your yard that receive little or no sunlight. Shade plants come in both annual and perennial varieties and are usually very easy to care for. Taking proper care planting shade plants maximizes their health and beauty.
- Choose plants that are appropriate for the amount of shade in your planting location. While many plants will do well in partial shade, fewer will thrive in full shade, so be certain of your plant’s requirements before planting.
- Till or dig the area up to 12 inches to provide an aerated, loose ground. Roots need air and loose soil to be healthy and grow.
- Add compost, peat moss or commercial fertilizer. Shade plants usually have to compete with a larger ones for nutrients, so be sure there is enough nutrition in the soil to sustain them.
- Dig a hole for each plant half as large as the pot, being careful not to space the plants too close for proper airflow.
- Remove the plants from pots by carefully popping them out from the bottom. Do not pull or you risk breaking roots.
- Fluff the roots to gently loosen them, then set the plant in the hole.
- Fill the hole in with dirt, stopping frequently to shake it down into the roots. This prevents air pockets that can cause problems with plant support.
- Pat the dirt down firmly, and add enough to be level with the rest of the bed.
- Add a layer of mulch, using your choice of grass clippings, dried leaves, straw or peat moss. This retains moisture and prevents weeds.
- Water the plants thoroughly. Once they are watered, follow specific plant care instructions for future frequency.