Planting Dense Shade at a Fence Base in Upstate NY

A gardener 100 miles north of NYC has a dense shade strip along a fence (only late afternoon sun) in a high-traffic turf area. Wants low perennials or climbing ivy.

Ivy Considerations

English ivy (Hedera helix) and Boston ivy (Parthenocissus) will climb the fence but provide no flowers and can become invasive. In high-traffic areas, ivy on the ground gets trampled.

Better Shade Perennials for Color & Texture

• Hydrangea shrubs: 'Endless Summer' (blue/pink), 'Annabelle' (white). Bloom well in shade. 3-5 ft.
• Japanese Yews (Taxus cuspidata): Evergreen, shade-tolerant. Can be sheared into hedge or left natural. 'Capitata' (pyramidal), 'Densiformis' (spreading).
• Perennial flowers: Hosta (hundreds of varieties), Astilbe, Ferns, Heuchera, Brunnera, Lungwort, Bleeding Heart, Japanese Forest Grass.
• Hanging baskets on fence: Impatiens, Fuchsia, Begonia for seasonal color without ground space.

Design Idea

Plant yews at fence base (pyramidal at ends, rounded in middle). Underplant with hostas and heucheras. Hang impatiens baskets on fence posts for summer color. Keeps ground clear for traffic.