If you frequent garden centers to buy bright colorful flower plants for your shady backyard, you most likely are familiar with the feeling of disappointment to find out that many of the annual flowers require full sun to thrive. Truth is, while designing a shady backyard can be a challenge, it also provides an opportunity to create a unique and beautiful outdoor space.
You can plant various shrubs, perennials, and annuals in your shady backyard. Choose plants that are well-suited for the amount of shade in your backyard. Some plants, such as ferns, hostas, and hydrangeas, prefer full to partial shade, while others, like impatiens and begonias, need bright indirect light. Other good plants are hostas and hydrangeas are both good options. Consider adding some shade-tolerant shrubs and trees to create a natural and lush environment. Unfortunately, popular annuals such as zinnias, marigolds, petunias, cosmos, and geraniums do not do well in shady spots.
If you are into vegetable gardening, a shady backyard can be suitable for growing some types of vegetables. Some vegetables need full sun to grow and produce well, while others can tolerate or even prefer some shade. Some options are lettuce (prefers partial shade to full sun), spinach, chard, kale, radish, and arugula.
Create a cozy outdoor living space by adding a patio in your shady backyard. You can add furniture and outdoor lighting for relaxing or entertaining. Or, transform the shady area into an outdoor room by adding a pergola, screen walls or curtains for privacy, and comfortable seating. You can also add outdoor rugs, cushions, and decor to make the space more inviting. Or, if you have children, use the shady area as a play area by installing a swingset, slide, or other play structures.
A focal point in your shady backyard can add interest and draw the eye to a particular area. You can add a water feature, such as a fountain or pond, or a large stone statue, not only create a focal point but may also create a peaceful and tranquil environment. Additionally, hardscaping elements, such as a patio, walkway, or retaining wall, can add texture and structure to your shady backyard. Natural stone or wood to blend with the natural environment will make great options for your garden design materials.
Proper lighting can make your shady backyard a welcoming place for relaxation and entertainment. Outdoor lighting, such as lanterns, string lights, or landscape lighting, to highlight the plants and hardscaping elements. Festive!