Gardening

LaydeeBug

(10,291 posts) Tue Jun 28, 2016, 11:37 PM Jun 2016

What are the best foundation plants for shady zone 7a? [View all]

I am *really* excited to plant my front garden (after I get my house painted) I really love vibrant, vivid colored plants, and know I am limited because of my front yard being shaded by a huge elm tree.

But I know I need evergreen foundation plants, and love the schlubby, cottage looking ones. I would like low maintenance, and something that I can plant hydrangeas and peonies in front of for Spring and Summer interest.

Any suggestions would help. My house is white with navy blue shutters and a blue and black roof. Right now, my front door is blue, but I am thinking of changing that up (I am open for suggestions on that too, lol) I would prefer not to have white flowers because of the house. Other than that, I am open...

What do you think?

9 replies

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What are the best foundation plants for shady zone 7a? [View all] LaydeeBug Jun 2016 OP

i just do not think like that - have not for thirty years SoLeftIAmRight Jun 2016 #1

It *is* good for the soil to have foundation plants LaydeeBug Jun 2016 #2

Hydrangeas will be beautiful and there are many varieties. japple Jun 2016 #3

Not evergreen, but Japanese maples do very well under elm trees Major Nikon Jun 2016 #4

See if you like anything here. Curmudgeoness Jun 2016 #5

I love those pics... LaydeeBug Jun 2016 #8

Well, to be honest, most of this is rather invasive. Curmudgeoness Jun 2016 #9

i'm a big fan of native plants shireen Jun 2016 #6

about shade ... shireen Jun 2016 #7