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How To Save A Shady Garden From Sudden Sun, According To An Expert
By PEG ALOI
Move The Plant
Too much sunlight can damage perennials like hostas, astilbes, bleeding hearts, primroses, and ferns, so you'll have to move them to an area away from direct sun.
When replanting shade-loving plants in partial sun, try to place them in a spot with morning sun instead of afternoon sun.
Use Reed Fencing
A quick fix for protecting shade plants from sudden exposure is enclosing your yard with affordable reed fencing, which is widely available and lightweight.
Reed fencing also comes in rolled sections that are easy to transport. If you're keeping this fencing for the long term, it may need replacing every other year or so.
Plant Shrubs
Plant shrubs to add shade to your yard. Consider your yard space and decide whether you want a shrub that needs shaping and trimming or one with a more organic form.
Some large, sun-loving, flowering shrubs that will bring drama and shade include weigela, ninebark, rose of Sharon, butterfly bush, and panicle hydrangea.
Add Perennials
If your yard is receiving sudden sun due to a loss of shade trees, consider planting various sun-loving perennials, such as roses, sedums, and peonies.
However, more sun may mean you need to water your perennials more often. For better moisture absorption, do this in the morning or at dusk.
Build Arbor
Structures like arbors and pergolas offer shade, especially if climbing plants or vines like honeysuckle or clematis vines are planted nearby and trained to climb them.
They are an attractive way to add structure and shade to your yard, and they can be made from many different materials — you can even DIY a wooden pergola.