Transforming an empty corner in my garden into a thriving, shady backyard design has been one of my favorite projects this summer. This particular corner had been sitting bare for a while, but I knew it had potential to become something special. By focusing on plants that thrive in low light, I was able to turn it into a space filled with life, starting with a large fern as the focal point and layering smaller, shade-friendly plants around it.
Starting with the Large Fern: The Key to Shady Backyard Design
In any shady backyard design, it’s important to start with a plant that can anchor the space and create structure. For this spot, I chose a large fern, which is perfect for shady areas. Ferns bring texture and movement to a garden and do incredibly well in low-light conditions. I wanted something that would instantly transform the corner and provide a solid base for the rest of the design.
The fern adds height and depth to the space, making it feel more layered and dynamic. For anyone working on a shady backyard design, starting with a bold plant like a fern gives you a foundation to build around.
Adding Shade-Friendly Plants to Fill the Space
Once the fern was in place, I wanted to complement it with smaller plants that thrive in low light. This is a crucial part of any shady backyard design—choosing plants that not only survive in shade but also contribute different textures and colors to keep the area interesting. Hostas, caladiums, and impatiens made the cut for my design. They fill in the gaps around the fern, adding a variety of heights and colors.
The key to designing a successful shady backyard is selecting plants that will thrive in similar conditions. Grouping these shade-loving plants together creates a cohesive, layered look that evolves as the plants grow and spread.
Shady Care Year-Round
Taking care of a shady backyard design involves understanding how to maintain your plants through the changing seasons. Here’s a breakdown of how to care for ferns and other shade-loving plants year-round:
- Spring: As temperatures start to rise, give your shady corner a boost with light pruning and the addition of fresh compost. This is a great time to feed your ferns with a diluted liquid fertilizer to promote new growth. Ensure the soil remains moist, as spring is the season of active growth for many shade-loving plants.
- Summer: Even in shady spots, the soil can dry out faster in the summer. Keep a close eye on moisture levels, especially during heatwaves. Water regularly to keep the soil moist, but make sure it doesn’t become waterlogged. Consider adding a layer of mulch to help retain moisture. Ferns will thrive in the increased humidity that comes with the summer season, but mist them occasionally if you’re in a particularly dry climate.
- Fall: As temperatures begin to drop, your plants will start slowing down. This is the time to reduce feeding but continue to keep the soil moist. Remove any fallen leaves from around your plants to prevent rot or disease, especially in damp, shady areas. Ferns may drop some fronds in the fall, which is perfectly normal—just prune away the dead growth to keep your plants tidy.
- Winter: Ferns in shady areas generally don’t need much care during the winter. If you live in a colder climate, it’s a good idea to mulch heavily around the base of the plants to insulate their roots from frost. Keep watering to a minimum during the dormant months, but check in to make sure the soil isn’t completely dry. For regions with mild winters, your fern and other shade-friendly plants may continue to grow slowly throughout the season.
By adjusting your care routine with the seasons, you can ensure that your shady backyard design remains healthy and vibrant all year long.
Fern Care for Your Shady Backyard Design
To keep your fern healthy and thriving in your shady backyard design, keep these tips in mind:
- Shade tolerance: Ferns prefer full shade or indirect light, making them ideal for shady corners.
- Moisture needs: Keep the soil consistently moist but avoid waterlogging. Mulching can help retain moisture.
- Humidity: Ferns love humidity. If you’re in a dry area, misting occasionally can help.
- Soil preference: They do best in rich, well-draining soil. Adding compost ensures the right balance.
- Fertilizing: Light feeding during the growing season will encourage healthy growth.
- Pruning: Regularly remove dead or damaged fronds to promote new growth.
Designing for Shade: Final Thoughts
Shady backyard design is all about working with what your garden gives you. While low-light areas can seem challenging, they’re full of potential with the right plant choices. Starting with a large focal plant like a fern and layering in smaller shade-loving varieties allows you to turn a neglected corner into a thriving part of your garden. Whether you’re working with a small space or a larger shady area, choosing the right plants will make all the difference.
