Many of us have one or two shady spots in our gardens that we would love to fill with color. Full or partial shade can seem to limit our options a bit when it comes to planting perennials. (Hosta garden, anyone?) In fact, there are a number of flowering perennials that thrive in shade. However, if you really want to brighten up those dark corners, shade-tolerant annuals are the way to go. Blooms often last right up until the first frost. With plenty of options available at nurseries and garden centers, you’re sure to find the color combinations you want- and some you never even knew you needed!

Shade

Step one is determining what type of shade you have. Partial shade is an area that receives 4-6 hours of shade per day. Maybe the east side of a house or garage that only gets morning sun, or the dappled light that gets filtered through the trees. Areas that are considered full shade receive no direct sunlight at all. These are the spots where you might think it’s impossible to dispel the gloom. But there is definitely an annual for that.

Coleus

For spots with some morning sun and afternoon shade, it’s hard to beat the coleus plant, or Plectranthus scutellarioides. Gardeners grow coleus for its decorative variegated leaves in all shapes, sizes, and shades. In fact, pinching the plants back every few weeks to prevent the spiky flowers from forming is a common practice among fans of these shade-lovers. This keeps the plants from becoming too “leggy.” Coleus are pretty low-maintenance. To get the best performance, plant in a well-draining soil and fertilize regularly. Their stunning leaves are at home in beds and borders, or in containers, and they are especially attractive when multiple varieties in complementary colors are grown together.

Caladiums

Caladiums are another group of plants gardeners grow primarily for their show-stopping foliage. These plants succeed at brightening up those dark corners where nothing seems to thrive. Seedlings are readily available at most garden centers. If growing from tubers, space 8-12” apart and look for the side with the most “eyes” (growing points) and face up. Site plants in a well-draining spot and water regularly. Making sure soil stays moist, but never soggy. In addition to adding a pop of color to the garden, caladium leaves look fantastic in flower arrangements. Feel free to snip a bit of foliage as needed.