Low-Maintenance Gardener's Delight: Audra McDonald's Shade Garden Blooms with Neglected Plants
New Take:
Audra McDonald, the talented actress, affectionately admits she's no green thumb, but her breathtaking backyard shade garden is a testament to her heart for gardening. An Instagram stroll through her abode showcases a plethora of stone pieces, the finest shade plants, and beings-friendly soil moisture levels.
What's intriguing? This visually stunning shade garden creation required limited gardening know-how and investment. According to Audra, 'It's all stuff that was already in my garden in other places, and we just transplanted it.'
At first glance, Audra's garden might resemble a Spanish Revival or Mediterranean-style oasis, but don't be fooled, it's made primarily with the best plants for under trees. Interested in recreating the look? Expert Thom Rutter, a master gardener and Content Editor at Homes & Gardens, offers some enlightening insights.
'Hostas and ferns are the way to go for shade gardens,' Thom reveals. 'They're versatile, adaptable, and create a lush, green backdrop.' Frustrated by inconsistent watering? Don't fret, go for drought-tolerant plants such as periwinkle (Vinca minor).
But the secret ingredient, Thom emphasizes, lies in the soil. 'Concentrate on improving your garden soil. Both ferns and hostas prefer moist soil, allowing them to grow optimally,' he advises. 'I'd suggest mulching your woodland beds after planting to help retain moisture during the summer, especially when conditions can get hot and dry.'
Gardening can sometimes seem like a secret society—steeped in specialist knowledge that deters newcomers. But it doesn't have to be that difficult. By planting to the strengths of your outdoor space using plants you know perform well there, success is imminent.
Master your Shade Garden
Take your shady space to new heights with hostas, ferns, hellebore, autumn fern, lungwort, foamflower, and Brunnera 'Jack Frost'. For ground covers, consider adding bugleweed and epimedium. Drought-tolerant plants like periwinkle are perfect for areas with inconsistent watering.
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- Audra McDonald's home-and-garden transformation, featuring her lovely shade garden, showcases an appealing lifestyle merge with gardening, offering a practical example for those just starting out.
- To master a shade garden like Audra's, consider incorporating plants suggested by expert Thom Rutter, such as hostas, ferns, and drought-tolerant periwinkle, while focusing on improving soil conditions for optimal growth.
