Show Notes
Many gardeners believe that nothing grows in shade, but is that really true?
In this episode of The Shade Gardening Podcast, Marcus explores one of the biggest misconceptions in gardening and explains why shade isn't a problem to overcome, but an opportunity to create something truly beautiful.
From understanding the different types of shade found in every garden to discovering plants that thrive in lower light conditions, this episode will help you look at your shady spaces in a completely new way. Marcus shares practical advice, favourite shade-loving plants, and why learning to work with your garden's natural conditions is often the key to gardening success.
Whether you're struggling with a north-facing border, gardening beneath mature trees, or simply trying to make the most of a forgotten corner of your garden, this episode is for you.
In this episode: • Why every garden has shade • The myth that "nothing grows in shade" • Understanding different types of shade • Choosing the right plant for the right place • Shade-loving plants including hostas, ferns, heucheras, hellebores, brunnera, epimediums, astilbes, pulmonarias, and Japanese forest grass • Why shade gardens can be some of the most peaceful and rewarding spaces to garden
Join the conversation in The Shade Gardening Facebook Group, where thousands of gardeners share advice, inspiration, and photographs of their own shade gardens.
Thank you for listening, and remember, some of the most beautiful parts of the garden are often found away from the spotlight.
Happy Gardening.
More from The Shade Gardening Podcast
Why can one gardener grow magnificent heucheras, hostas or brunneras while another repeatedly watches the same plants struggle and disappear?
There comes a point in late summer when some shade gardens seem to lose their way. The spring bulbs have disappeared, the hellebores finished months ago, the foxgloves are fading and even the hostas and ferns may be looking tired. Autumn hasn’t quite arrived either, leaving the garden caught somewhere between two seasons.
This extraordinary summer has left many established shade gardens looking almost unrecognisable. Hellebores have collapsed, astilbes have disappeared, hostas have fried around the edges, and even dependable ferns and hydrangeas have struggled.
Have you ever planted something that you later wished you hadn't?
Dry shade is often described as one of the toughest places to garden. Beneath mature trees, alongside hedges, or in those forgotten corners where sunlight is limited and the soil always seems dry, many gardeners simply give up.