Living in an apartment with limited sunlight doesn't mean you have to forgo the joy of gardening. Many beautiful and resilient plants actually prefer the cool, sheltered conditions of a shady spot. If your balcony, patio, or windowsill gets mostly shade, your urban planter boxes can still become a lush, green oasis. The key is selecting the right plants that are adapted to lower light levels.
Here are some of the best plants that will thrive in your shady urban planter boxes:
1. Ferns
Ferns are a classic choice for shade. Their delicate, arching fronds add texture and a soft, woodland feel to any planter. The Asparagus Fern is a particularly tough and fast-growing variety that spills beautifully over the edges of boxes.
2. Hostas
Known for their stunning foliage, hostas are shade garden champions. They come in a vast array of sizes, and leaf colors, from deep green to variegated white and gold. They provide a strong architectural element.
3. Begonias
For a pop of color, begonias are unbeatable. Both wax begonias and angel-wing begonias produce lovely flowers in shades of pink, red, and white throughout the growing season, even in deep shade.
4. Coral Bells (Heuchera)
Coral Bells are grown primarily for their spectacular, colorful foliage that ranges from lime green to deep purple and silver. They are low-maintenance and add vibrant hues where flowers might not bloom.
5. Coleus
If you want vibrant color without relying on flowers, coleus is your plant. Its leaves come in an incredible mix of patterns and colors, including maroon, lime green, and deep red. It thrives in shade, where its colors remain rich.
6. English Ivy
A versatile trailing plant, English Ivy is excellent for adding volume and cascading down the sides of your planter. It's extremely adaptable and remains evergreen in many climates.
Tips for Success in the Shade:
* Use Quality Potting Mix: Ensure your planter boxes have well-draining soil to prevent waterlogging.
* Water Wisely: Shady areas dry out slower than sunny ones, so be careful not to overwater. Check the soil moisture before watering.
* Choose the Right Planter: Ensure your boxes have adequate drainage holes.
By choosing these shade-loving plants, you can transform your low-light apartment exterior into a thriving and beautiful green retreat.