Gardening in low light conditions can often result in a dull and uninviting space, one that’s hard to enjoy. But with the right plants and strategies, you can transform that dark space into a vibrant oasis that welcomes you to relax and unwind. Here’s how you can turn even the shadiest spots into beautiful, lush retreats.
I would start by trying to increase the light into the area, take a look around and work out where the issue is coming from. If it’s an overhanging tree or tall boundary hedge think about pruning it to allow light through the canopy. You may not be able to drastically get more sun into the area but by reducing a canopy in accordance with your local council guidelines you will be able to make the space feel much brighter.
If it’s a large structure such as a masonry wall and that wall is within your property boundary, consider painting the wall in a bright colour to reflect light into the area. If it’s a neighbour’s property talk to them about the issue and see if they are open to a new paint job.
Whatever the drawbacks in your garden it is much easier to embrace what you do have and look on the positive side rather than fight against it. Without lots of sun you will sacrifice blooms and your plant palette will be restricted however what you do have is a shady spot to get out of the hot sun and the ability to grow some amazing foliage-based plants for either a tropical or even woodland inspired getaway.
Create a destination in your low light area so you have a reason to go out and enjoy it. Timber decking works well around tree roots as the posts can be manipulated to give secure footings whilst not damaging the trees in question. Paved areas can grow moss in low light areas however tiles are easier to clean off than clay or concrete pavers and good quality ceramic tiles are very stain resistant. If you don’t have space for an area of hardstand but still want to make use of the zone a simple bench seat will be a lovely getaway from the heat if positioned on a few bricks sunk in the ground to keep it level and prevent it from rocking.
Adding the right plants to this area will be the key to its success, no matter what style you go for healthy thriving plants make an area much more inviting. Before planting always improve the soil to increase the nutrient and water holding capacity, I like to do this with compost or well matured manures. I would also then apply a soil wetting agent as areas under trees or those that have been dry for a long period can easily become hydrophobic.
Incorporating organic matter around tree roots can be troublesome but do your best to mix it into the top layer of the soil. If you are struggling to get any soil at all, go up with pots, these will allow you to plant, bring that interest closer to the eye and allow you to control the water your plants get too.
When selecting plants, it’s important to get a range of heights to give you a layered effect and don’t be scared of adding in some height, even if it’s really low light. Tall Heliconia or Gingers will give you height without overtaking the aerial space and clogging it up. If you want more flowers, then the Mexican mist flower will work in very low light and still get covered in a lavender purple spray of blooms.
Pick plants that look good all year round with bold and striking foliage, variegations will help to bring light into a dark corner and some succulents such as jungle cactus can give the look of a sunnier position whilst requiring lower levels of UV to succeed.
Watch your watering in a shady area and be ready to alter your regium accordingly as although evaporation is slower and you don’t want moss forming on your hardstand, plants will still need some moisture to succeed especially if your area gets lots of hot dry winds.
