Subject: Re: Lack of direct sun From: "Bill Robinson" <roseguy@gte.net> Organization: Date: Mon, 08 Jan 01 07:34:10 Message-ID: <MOD$010107.9288@rec.gardens.ecosystems>
Mike asks for suggestions on ornamentals for use in a garden
that doesn't get much direct light. This can be a challenge!
There are many ornamentals that do well in soft shade but
there are also the issues of soil and climate. Those ornamentals
that do well in the soft shade of my garden may or may not be
suited for other garden situations.
I think that the best answer would be to look at other gardens
in your area and to note which ornamentals are doing well in
soft or dark shade and have design potential for your particular
garden. These then become possible candidates and, in essence,
you "audition" these ornamentals by trying them out in your
garden. (Give them a chance to become established before coming
to a decision.) If they seem to do well and they seem to serve
their purpose, they can stay (at least for the time being). . .
if not, try something else.
Once a year or so, go through the garden and pitch those plants
that simply are not doing well, have chronic problems with pests
or disease or aren't doing their job. I think that the making of
a really good ornamental garden involves a lot of simple trial
and error plus a commitment to serious on-going "editing".
No body ever seems to get it right the first time around unless they are
very, very lucky.