Shade container plants…
Spring is here and we’re all under a stay-at-home order. Besides food, the one other thing constantly on my mind is the beautiful Spring weather upon us and the idea of getting my hands into the dirt. Maybe it’s a reminder of life continuing on, but I can’t wait to get some annuals, perennials and even shrubs into pots on the deck and the porch. We spend a lot of time on our covered front porch in the summer and although bright, there is no direct light. I love coming up with new ideas for beautiful container plants for the shade.
I always seem to prefer to keep things simple and natural looking. At least that’s what I end up liking the most. A couple of my favorite shady spot pots are actually perennials. A hosta looks great in a pot, whether it’s a big variety or a small one like this mini chartreuse one above. I also really love Brunerra Jack Frost (below). I’ve put it alone in a rustic style pot or added it to impatiens for a sweet combination. It has such a nice woodland look, I think. And they are slug resistant.
They’ll each come back every year, just make sure you keep them in a shady spot where they can get rained on all winter long. But if you do leave them out, make sure it’s in a pot recommended for outdoor use and able to withstand the freezing and thawing outside. I haven’t made it to the garden center yet (staying home and staying safe) but these two beauties are already growing and I didn’t have to do a thing this Spring.
Coleus
One of my favorite shade container plants are coleus. Mix a few different varieties together and you have a bright, beautiful pot to brighten up any space. Or use them along with other plant combinations in a container. There are tall varieties as well as trailing ones.
A little more inspiration…
Of course, there are always impatiens.
I loved this smaller variety of elephant ear I put in this tall pot one year. It was happy with a bit of morning sun but isn’t necessary.
For hanging plants in shade there are also fuschias and ferns to keep us happy
And don’t forget small shrubs as well. As long as you water them over the winter months or they are in a spot where they will get rain you can enjoy them year after year. Check out these potted hydrangeas.
Container Gardening Pinterest Board
Please check out my “Container Garden” Pinterest board for loads more inspiration. And follow me there! I hope everyone is hanging in there and staying healthy. Please be safe.
