Part-Shade Native Plants

Are you unsure about the sun exposure in your garden? Never fear; there are simple ways to figure it out! One easy method is to observe the area throughout the day, noting the amount of sunlight it receives at various times.

You don’t have to sit there all day (although that’s an enjoyable way to pass the time!). Instead, consider setting up a time-lapse camera if you don’t have time to watch the sun’s path across your garden.

If part of your garden is shaded by buildings or trees, try marking off sections and tracking the sunlight they receive separately. Keep in mind that even within a seemingly sunny area, spots may vary from full sun to part shade.

This variation can work to your advantage. Consider planting part-shade native plants and perennials for a pop of color in those less sunny spots. With a bit of observation and creativity, you can determine the perfect sun exposure for your garden and choose the best flowers to thrive there. Remember that you should plant native plants according to where you live. After all, gardening in Maine can be very different from gardening in Virginia!

Are you looking for native perennial plants that thrive in part shade? There are lots available, but here are some of our favorites:

• Narrow-leaved sunflowers add a pop of color with cheerful yellow flowers that attract pollinators like butterflies.
• Spotted beebalm offers not only beautiful purple blooms but also a lovely fragrance.
• Frostweed is beautiful, especially when it forms ice crystals on its stems in the winter, making for a stunning display.
• Anise hyssop adds color and tasty leaves that can be used in cooking.
• Downy wood mint adds delicate white flowers to the mix.
• Virginia mountain mint completes the group with pretty purple blooms and a strong minty scent.

These are just some of the part-shade-loving natives sure to add beauty to any garden!

When watering part-shade native plants, the best approach is to check their soil daily. These plants are likely receiving some water from tree coverage, as well as dew in the morning. Therefore, a strict watering schedule could potentially lead to overwatering and drowning the roots.

Instead, make sure the soil is drying out before adding more water. Part-shade native perennials will also appreciate being allowed to go through natural dry spells, as this promotes healthy root growth. So don't be afraid to let your part shade plants go a little bit on the drier side — they will thank you in the long run.

And remember, part-shade natives are carefully adapted to thrive in their specific environment, so trust their natural needs!

It may seem tempting to cut down a tree blocking out some sun in your garden, but before making a rash decision, consider the numerous benefits trees bring to your landscape. Instead of removing the tree, try planting part-shade native plants and perennials that can thrive in these conditions.

Native plants are adapted to their environment, require less water and maintenance, and support local wildlife. Plus, part-shade plants add diversity and can provide gorgeous pops of color in your garden. So instead of removing that beloved tree, embrace the natural shade it provides and incorporate part-shade plants into your landscape for a beautiful and environmentally-friendly pollinator garden.

Have you ever walked through a field of wildflowers, surrounded by a beautiful array of colorful blooms and diverse plant life? That is the power of native plants. Native plants have evolved over millions of years to thrive in their specific climate and soil conditions, making them well-adapted to the local environment.

This means they require less effort and resources (water, fertilizer, pesticides) to maintain and are more resilient against drought and disease. Planting native plants can also provide food and shelter for local wildlife, supporting biodiversity in the area. Plus, with so many unique native species available, there are endless options for creating a stunning part-shade garden that thrives without exerting extra effort.

So be sure to include some part-shade native plants in your garden this season!