A Layered Shade Corner

A shaded corner beside a fence or under tall trees can be the calmest part of the garden. This plan builds three layers, canopy, shrub and ground cover, with daffodils to open the season before the maple leafs out.

Hardiness
Zones 5–8
Light
Part shade
Season
Spring to fall
Water
Medium to high
Upkeep
Low to medium

Plants in this plan

  • Illustration of Japanese Maple
    Japanese Maple Acer palmatum

    Canopy. Place one tree off-center, where it receives morning sun.

  • Illustration of Bigleaf Hydrangea
    Bigleaf Hydrangea Hydrangea macrophylla

    Shrub layer. Plant two or three, 4 ft (1.2 m) apart, on the side with the most light.

  • Illustration of Hosta
    Hosta Hosta spp.

    Ground layer. Mix blue, green and variegated varieties in groups.

  • Illustration of Daffodil
    Daffodil Narcissus spp.

    Spring layer. Tuck bulbs between the hostas, whose new leaves will hide the fading foliage.

Planting and care tips

  • Improve the soil with plenty of leaf mold or compost before planting. Shade plants are woodland plants and need humus.
  • Mulch 3 in (8 cm) deep every spring to hold moisture.
  • Tree roots take a lot of water, so check the soil in dry spells even after rain.
  • Protect hostas from slugs as the shoots emerge.
  • The hydrangea, hosta and daffodil are toxic to pets. The Japanese maple is not.