Who said that growing plants in the shade is impossible? With this essential guide, you’ll learn about the numerous options you can choose to make your garden more attractive, regardless of the amount of lighting it receives. In this “Shade Plants Arkansas” essential guide, you’ll get to learn our favorite plants to grow in this state.
Shade Plants Arkansas
If you live in a southern state, you might be familiar with the hot summer temperatures, which might damage the health of your plants. Some shade never hurts under such conditions, but not all plants will do well with minimal or partial lighting.
Don’t worry: there are options available to you! But the ideal plants to grow in your garden depend on your hardiness zone.
Hellebores
Hellebores are among the most popular plants to grow in the shade. They are perennials, meaning that if you provide them with the proper care, they will keep blooming for several years. And the best thing about hellebores is that they are not fussy.
These plants are tolerant to most soil conditions and perform best in partial shade under fertile and moist but well-draining soils. So, all in all, these plants aren’t challenging to grow. All you have to do is give them what they need to thrive!
Bleeding Heart
Bleeding hearts are woodland plants that love the shade and will add an elegant touch to any yard. They bloom in the early spring and don’t require much attention from your side.
However, don’t forget to prepare your substrate to accommodate these plants’ growth. These plants prefer slightly acidic conditions and do best in moist and fertile environments.
If necessary, put some effort into amending the soil. Also, these plants don’t tolerate heavy winds: add adequate protection if needed. And if you have pets or small kids, beware: the bleeding heart plant is toxic to humans and animals.
Foxglove
Foxgloves are stunning perennials that produce vividly-colored flowers that attract plenty of bees and butterflies to your garden during the blooming season. And the best part is that most of these stunning flowers’ varieties thrive in full shade.
These plants prefer light soils but will adapt to “heavier” environments, provided that you amend them with organic matter such as compost or manure. Don’t forget to feed your foxgloves with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer to boost flower production.
Use a high-quality product to get the best results. Also, consider mulching around your plants: add a layer of wooden bark to improve the nutrient content and increase drainage.
Heuchera
Heucheras thrive under the full shade: too much lighting might cause them to struggle and eventually die. These plants are native to North America and not particularly challenging to grow.
While the flowers are not showy, they are delicate and colorful and can contribute to adding a nice touch to your garden. Don’t forget to water your plants regularly: these plants need constant moisture to grow. But remember, wet soil will be counterproductive.
To avoid root rot and other diseases, ensure the substrate you are using is well-draining. If necessary, add some mulch around your plants: doing so will increase the nutrient content and improve water retention.
Toad Lilies
Toad lilies are stunning delicate-looking perennials that thrive under the full shade, especially in Arkansas, where summers can get hot. Indeed, while these plants might tolerate the sun in cool climates (if you keep them moist), they will struggle under the full sun in Arkansas.
Consider adding mulch around your plants to increase water retention and improve drainage. Don’t forget to water your plants: consistent moisture is the key to their survival! Also, improve the soil’s nutrient content by adding compost or manure around your plants.
Japanese Anemone
If you want to add an exotic touch to your garden, consider adding Japanese Anemones: these plants are native to China and produce showy but elegant flowers. The blooms can be white, pale pink, or creamy. The attractive foliage will add texture and volume to your garden with a gorgeous effect.
Despite not being a native plant, Japanese Anemone isn’t hard to grow: provided that you ensure it gets adequate moisture and nutrition, you won’t have to worry too much about it.
Shade Plants Arkansas: Final thoughts
Ideally, grow these plants under shady trees. Also, add some mulch to improve drainage and increase water retention, and don’t forget to follow a consistent watering schedule.
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