2. THE SHADE GARDEN IS NOT A PERENNIAL BORDER

In the woodland garden, it's appropriate to relax rigid design rules in favor of a more natural setting. Nature doesn't compose in straight lines or geometric patterns, nor does she insist that tall plants always go in back.

Taking cues from nature, work toward balance instead of symmetry. Strive for a series of interesting views. Group and mass plants together as nature would. An occasional drift of a single species is breathtaking. For a surprise, try emerging from a narrow path flanked by large shrubs into an opening that contains a special feature.

Rely on a diverse plant palette for maximum impact. Study plant catalogs, especially those that specialize in native plants. You'll soon find that there are as many species for shady gardens as there are for sun, even though you might not recognize their names at first.

Tim and Lissa Hazel's Fox Chapel garden is the perfect respite from the heat.

 

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