Every plant has different requirements for growth and nourishment. These requirements, such as sunlight, weather conditions, water, and fertilizers, may greatly vary depending on the individual category of plants. Some plants, such as carnivorous plants, require lot of sunlight, while others may be strictly indoor plants.
Shade gardens are very popular among gardeners because of their soothing and relaxing effect. Shade gardens have a variety of shade plants that require varying degrees of shade. It is relatively easy to maintain shade gardens, as shade plants do not require frequent watering. Most gardeners create a shade garden in the shade provided by a cluster of mature trees. It is crucial to understand the type of shade available in a garden for successful shade gardening. Generally, the types of shade can be divided into deep shade, part shade, and dappled shade. It is imperative for growers and gardeners to understand the shade requirements of plants before planting them in shade gardens. They should also be aware of ways to protect the shade plants during the summer. Gardeners can select plants that are best suited to the climatic conditions of that region.
Dappled shade is formed by deciduous trees, and shade plants such as epimedium, anemone, trillium, and a variety of bulbs thrive in this type of shade. Part shade conditions refer to full sunlight exposure in the morning and shade during afternoons. Most plants except those that need excessive sunlight, can adapt to part shade conditions. Gardening in deep shade, which is created between tall structures such as buildings, can be very challenging. Plants such as Summersweet (clethera) thrive in deep shade. It is recommended to add compost to the soil to provide nutrition to the plants. It also enhances the water retaining capacity of the soil.
If shade plants are planted in sunny areas, they begin to lose their color, and, subsequently, they wither or die. It is also important for these plants to have proper drainage.
