What to Plant in Pots in Shade in Oregon

When you live in Oregon, you are blessed with a climate that supports a wide array of plants. However, if you're living in a space that doesn't get a lot of sunlight, you may face some challenges when it comes to selecting what to plant in pots in the shade. Fortunately, with the right planning and a bit of knowledge, you can create an oasis of greenery and color even in the darkest corners of your Oregonian home.

Consider the Type of Shade You Have

The first thing you need to consider when selecting plants for a shady spot is the type of shade you have. Not all shade is created equal, and different plants thrive in different types of shade. For example, some plants enjoy the gentle shade provided by deciduous trees, while others prefer the dappled shade created by evergreen trees. A thorough understanding of the type of shade in your garden can help you make the right plant selections.

Choose Plants That are Suitable for Shade

When it comes to selecting suitable plants for shade, you have quite a few options. There are many beautiful and hardy plants that thrive in low light conditions. Some of the best plants for shade include ferns, hostas, astilbes, heucheras, and begonias. You can also consider planting herbs such as parsley, chives, or mint in pots in the shade. These plants may not require natural sunlight, but they need bright light to produce leaves, so make sure they are placed in a bright spot.

Get Creative with Shade Tolerant Plants

If you're a bit more creative, you can use plants that have different heights, colors, and textures to create interest in your garden. For example, you can create a terrarium with low growing, shade-tolerant plants that grow well in closed containers. You can also plant a mix of perennials and annuals to ensure you have flowers or foliage throughout the growing season. Adding potted trees, such as Japanese maples, can also add height and interest, especially if they have colorful leaves.

Take Care of Your Shade Plants

Finally, it's important to remember that even shade-loving plants need proper care to thrive. Make sure the soil in your pots is kept moist, but not too wet, and avoid overwatering, as this can lead to root rot. Use a high-quality potting mix and plant in pots that are the right size for the plants you've chosen. You may also need to fertilize more frequently as container plants will get depleted of nutrients faster than in-ground plants.

Conclusion

With the right plants and some TLC, you can plant a beautiful container garden in the shade. Whether you choose ferns, herbs, or a mix of perennials and annuals, Oregon's mild climate means you have plenty of options for a thriving and colorful garden, even in the darkest corners of your home or yard.