Best Shade Annuals

WHAT ARE THE TOP ANNUALS FOR SHADE GARDENS?

Annuals are one season showstoppers.

Typically native to warmer climates south of zone eight, annuals flourish in the summer months then die back after the fall frost.

Unlike perennials, which survive the winter months reappearing in late spring, annuals quickly establish, then bloom until frost.

New Guinea Impatiens are disease free

The majority of mass produced annuals require full to partial sunlight. 

Choices are  limited for shade gardeners craving some color, but blooms that thrive in full to partial shade are readily available.

1.  Impatiens:  Fabulous, but risky.  The moldy blight overwinters and could take three to five years before it clears out.  Replanting risks a return to the starting block.  If planting make sure the area is well drained.

2.   Begonia:  Does well in dappled shade.  More disease resistant.  Chose a variety with green leaves
as burgundy and brown stems don't show as well. White pops in the shade.  Pink and red blooms are smaller and do not show as well.  In the fall begonia become a mounding beauty, with a spectacular show before the cold sets in.  Die back in late fall is quick.  Removal is easy as roots are minimal.

2.  Coleus.  Fast becoming a favorite, coleus comes in a plethora of beautiful jewel tones.  Great for the border.

3.  Minimulus/Monkey Flower:  The white blooms are small, ringed in soft purples and pinks and resemble tiny monkey faces.    These rascals require little pruning. 

4.  Pansies:   Deep, stunning and vibrant colors, these are hardy annuals.  Die back occurs during the
hottest summer months.  Cut back and move to a shady location for a second bloom in the fall.  Pansies and violas often survive to spring if sheltered or following a mild winter.

Group in drifts or combinations throughout the yard or in pots.

There's a peacefulness in the shade garden that cannot be measured by the sun.

In early spring, fall-planted bubs will naturalize and flourish before trees bloom.

Observing a shaded garden from a sunny outpost, it appears monotonous.  Not much color is needed, but adding a bit beckons the garden visitor to the coolness under the canopy.

Somewhat Shady:

Best Shade Perennials

Turtlehead and other Fall Bloomers