10 Best Plants for Planter Boxes in Shade

Table of Contents

What are planter boxes?

Planter boxes, also known as garden box or raised bed gardens, are containers used for growing plants. They can be made from a variety of materials, such as wood, metal, or plastic, and can be placed anywhere where there is enough space for them.

The benefits of growing plants in planter boxes

Using planter boxes to grow plants has many advantages. Firstly, planter boxes provide better air circulation and drainage than traditional gardening methods. This makes it easier for plants to grow and reduces the risk of disease. Secondly, planter boxes can be placed in almost any location, making it easier to grow plants even in small spaces. Finally, planter boxes can be easily moved, allowing you to adjust your garden's lighting conditions as needed.

Challenges of growing plants in shady areas

One of the biggest challenges of growing plants in shady areas is that they may not receive sufficient light. This can lead to slower growth rates and lower yields. However, this does not mean you cannot have a beautiful garden! There are many plant options that thrive in low-light environments. In this article, we'll explore the 10 best plants for planter boxes in shade.

Main Content

1. Hostas

Description

Hostas are one of the most popular shade plants. They have large, textured leaves that come in a range of colors, from green to blue. They also produce attractive flowers in the summer. Hostas grow well in planter boxes and can be used to add texture and interest to any garden.

How to Grow

Hostas prefer moist, well-drained soil and need regular watering to thrive. They also benefit from occasional fertilizer applications. You can propagate hostas by dividing the clumps in early spring or fall.

2. Impatiens

Description

Impatiens are another popular choice for shade gardens. They produce brightly colored flowers in a range of shades, including pink, red, and white. They bloom throughout the summer and add a vibrant splash of color to any garden.

How to Grow

Impatiens prefer moist soil and need regular watering to thrive. They do well in planter boxes and can be propagated from cuttings or seeds.

3. Ferns

Description

Ferns are a classic plant for shady areas. They have delicate foliage that adds texture and interest to any garden. Some popular fern varieties include maidenhair ferns, Boston ferns, and Japanese painted ferns.

How to Grow

Most ferns prefer moist soil and require regular watering. They do not need much fertilizer, and most do not require pruning. In addition, ferns are easy to propagate by division.

4. Heucheras

Description

Heucheras, also known as coral bells, are known for their colorful foliage. They come in a range of colors, from deep purple to lime green. They also produce sprays of tiny flowers in the summer.

How to Grow

Heucheras prefer well-drained soil and need consistent moisture. They benefit from occasional fertilization and can be propagated by division.

5. Lamium

Description

Lamium, also known as dead nettle, is a low-growing plant that produces small, densely packed flowers in shades of pink, purple, and white. This plant is excellent for adding interest to garden edging or filling in gaps in borders.

How to Grow

Lamium prefers moist soil but can tolerate drier conditions once established. It does well in planter boxes and spreads easily, making it a great plant for filling in empty spaces.

6. Bleeding Heart

Description

Bleeding hearts are known for their distinctive heart-shaped flowers that hang from arching stems. They come in shades of pink, red, and white and bloom in the spring. This plant adds a touch of elegance to any garden.

How to Grow

Bleeding hearts prefer fertile, moist soil and need regular watering. They benefit from fertilization in the spring and can be propagated by division.

7. Begonias

Description

Begonias are a popular shade plant known for their brightly colored flowers and foliage. They come in a range of colors, including pink, red, and white. Some varieties also have variegated leaves. Begonias bloom throughout the summer and add a pop of color to any garden.

How to Grow

Begonias prefer well-drained soil and need consistent moisture. They do well in planter boxes and can be propagated from cuttings or seeds.

8. Astilbes

Description

Astilbes produce feathery plumes of flowers in shades of pink, red, and white. They bloom in early summer and add texture and interest to shady areas.

How to Grow

Astilbes prefer moist soil and require consistent watering. They do not need much fertilizer and can be propagated by division.

9. Sweet Woodruff

Description

Sweet woodruff is a low-growing plant that produces small, star-shaped flowers in the spring. It has delicate foliage and makes an excellent groundcover in shady areas.

How to Grow

Sweet woodruff prefers moist, well-drained soil and needs regular watering. It spreads easily and can be propagated by division or cuttings.

10. Coleus

Description

Coleus is known for its brightly colored foliage, which comes in a range of shades, including pink, purple, and green. This plant adds a pop of color to any garden and is excellent for filling in empty spaces.

How to Grow

Coleus prefers well-drained soil and consistent moisture. It benefits from occasional fertilization and can be propagated from cuttings or seeds.

Planter boxes are an excellent way to add greenery and color to shady areas. With the right plants and care, you can enjoy a beautiful garden in even the shadiest corners of your outdoor space. The 10 plants listed above are just a few of the many options available to gardeners. Experiment with different plants to find the ones that work best for your unique situation.

FAQ

Can all plants grow in planter boxes?

Most plants can be grown in planter boxes, as long as they have sufficient room for roots to grow and proper drainage.

What is the best soil for planter boxes?

The best soil for planter boxes is one that is light and well-draining. You can use a combination of potting soil and perlite or vermiculite to achieve this.

Do I need to fertilize my planter box plants?

Plants in planter boxes benefit from occasional fertilization. Use a slow-release fertilizer or a liquid fertilizer according to package directions.

How often should I water my planter box plants?

Watering frequency depends on the specific plant and climate conditions. In general, planter boxes require more frequent watering than ground-level gardens.

Can I grow vegetables in planter boxes in shade?

Yes, some vegetables do well in shade, including lettuce, spinach, and kale. However, most vegetables require at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day.

What are some common pests and diseases to watch out for in planter box gardens?

Common pests include aphids, spider mites, and whiteflies. Diseases to watch out for include powdery mildew and root rot.

Should I use mulch in my planter boxes?

Mulch can help conserve moisture and reduce weed growth in planter boxes. Use a layer of organic material, such as straw or wood chips, on top of the soil.

Can I mix different kinds of plants in one planter box?

Yes, you can mix different plants in one planter box as long as they have similar watering and light requirements.

How can I protect my planter box plants during colder months?

Move the planter box to a sheltered location or wrap it in burlap to protect the plants from cold temperatures and wind.

Where can I buy planter boxes and accessories?

Planter boxes and accessories can be found at most garden centers, hardware stores, and online retailers.