I've got a shaded spot in my yard that doesn't get any direct sunlight. I previously planted some hostas and coleus based on nursery advice, but neither seems to be thriving, and it turns out they both need a bit of sun. I'm looking for perennials that will thrive in this area without needing to be replanted every year. Any suggestions?
3 Answers
It’s still early in the season for zone 7. Depending on where you are in the zone, it might be just a bit too cold for coleus and hostas to really take off right now. Give it some more time, but definitely consider adding more suitable perennials for full shade!
It sounds like you might have a tough spot there! Full shade can be tricky for many plants. One perennial that does well in full shade is Hellebore; it might be worth a try. Keep in mind the conditions—if it’s deep shade, a lot of plants won’t perform well at all.
Could be that the coleus and hostas need a little more time to adjust. It’s also important to check the soil conditions—some areas can have a mix of sandy and clay-like soil. You might want to ensure you're watering correctly too, as both types need moisture but not waterlogged soil. Hope your plants perk up soon!
Yep, adjusting the watering schedule can really help. Just make sure the water is draining well—standing water can really stress out those plants.

Thanks for the tip! I hadn't heard of Hellebore before. I might give it a shot.