When it comes to plants, the options are endless.
Some plants are sun-loving, while others need to be kept in darker, cooler spaces.
Our team of landscapers in Perth has extensive landscaping experience with varying shade in client backyards.
Through this article, we’re going to share what the different kinds of shade are, and then you can choose plants depending on which scenario resonates with you and your situation.
As a rule-of-thumb, more than six hours of sunlight to an area of a garden is considered semi-shaded. Shade plants in hot climates are best suited for positions in the morning sun, under eaves and trees that create a microclimate of shade.
However, shade plants do not fare well in Perth’s afternoon or midday sun, even as little as a few hours.
With the rising trend of indoor plants, plant retailers have made some improvements through their packaging and labelling, which can help with selection when it comes to what type of shade your plant will need.
Please note that there is part shade, dappled shade, full shade, dappled shade and part shade. In this article, we will explore these types of shades here:
- Full shade: An example is gardens under eaves on the shady side of a house where the shade is solid, below a dense mature tree or indoors. This can be a callous area to work with. Plants here receive minimal or less than 6 hours of sun all year and no rain. Ambient light levels can change slightly with the seasons but remain relatively constant. Plants here will receive no winter rain; however, it will be considered wet shade if watered as less evaporation occurs. There is no reticulation. Dry, full shade plants are suitable here.
- Dappled shade: A space where it is not light enough to be considered part shade but is perfect for complete shade-loving plants. In most cases, it is a space where other foliage filters the light and a small percentage comes through. There is ambient light to the area. Winter rainfall will wet the soil here also.
- Part shade: This is a space that receives direct sunlight for a part of the day, typically morning or late afternoon, without the harsh midday or afternoon sun. This may be under deciduous trees that allow winter light below, an open arbour, or on the eastern side. Three to six hours of sunlight is normally required for plants that grow in part shade.
Are you still confused on what kind of shade your plants may need? Then we encourage you to get in touch with our team today. Explore our landscaping services in Perth, and be sure to also check out our past projects prior to getting in touch with us. Our team of landscapers in Perth are here to ensure you make the most out of your backyard, through a premium and bespoke landscaping service.