Low Maintenance Shade Plants

Hosta

• Hostas are one of the most popular shade loving plants, and for good reason. They are hardy perennials that can survive with only an inch of water a week. Hostas have attractive foliage available in a wide variety of colors. Choose blue leaf hostas for the best shade tolerance. Your hosta will produce spikes of lavender or white flowers in the summer months. Hostas should be planted in well-drained, fertile soil for the best results.

Spotted Deadnettle

• The spotted deadnettle is a semi-evergreen perennial with almost no pests or disease problems. It is drought-tolerant and needs to be planted in partial to full shade, making it an ideal choice for a low maintenance shade garden. It grows to a height of approximately ten inches. Foliage can be solid or variegated depending on the cultivar. Spotted deadnettles bloom in summer months and come in shades of pink, purple or white. Plant them in well drained soil for best results.

Ferns

• Ferns are available in many varieties but they all share some important similarities--they in shady conditions and are very hardy. Ferns require very little attention and their attractive fronds will add beauty to shaded gardens or along tree lines. Choose a planting site that has full or partial shade and fertile soil. Ferns also prefer moist conditions. Once you have established your ferns, they will grow for years with almost no required maintenance. Your fern may need water in exceptionally dry periods, but pests and diseases are rare.