Betsy's advice: Gardening in the shade
Living the Country Life Radio Program with Betsy Freese
As the editor for Living the Country Life magazine, I get letters from people from all over the country who share my lifestyle. A number of our readers have questions about shade plants, so we asked our team of experts to provide answers.
A reader in Charlotte, North Carolina, writes, "My yard is heavily shaded by old-growth hardwoods and receives about two to three hours of semi-direct sunlight each day. Do you think sod will grow in these conditions?"
From what you've described, your shade sounds pretty substantial. Any grass you plant there, regardless of variety, is likely to struggle in such low light. Instead of grass, consider shade-loving perennials such as hostas and ferns. Those plants will provide the greenery you're looking for without the hassle.
