Edmonton Landscaping: The Best Plants to Grow in the Shade or Sun

If you’re an avid gardener, you may already know which plant varieties thrive in the sun or shade. However, if you don’t have a green thumb or perhaps you lack time to do the proper research, then this blog post is for you! 

Planting and gardening in Edmonton can be challenging as our climate is harsh, the growing season is short and there are many garden stores that might sell plants not suitable for the zone in Northern Alberta. Edmonton is categorized as Zone 3 so it’s recommended to plant perennials or annuals that thrive in Zone 1, 2, 3. You may be able to include some plants in Zone 4 depending on their location in your garden and if they will be sheltered away from wind and extreme cold.

*Astilbe, Photo Source

If you’re working with an Edmonton landscape company to design your garden, they will suggest the best plants for your space but if you’re taking the DIY landscaping approach, here’s your quick guide to choosing the best plants for the sun or shade.

*Hosta, Photo Source

Shade Loving Perennials

• Hostas
• Bergenia
• Lamium
• Primula
• Ostrich Fern
• Bleeding Hearts
• Lady's Mantle
• Ligularia
• Pulmonaria (Lungwort)
• Astilbe
• Lily of the Valley

* Oriental Poppies, Photo Source

Sun Loving Perennials

• Hens and Chicks
• Creeping Thyme
• Sedums
• Oriental Poppies
• Day Lilies
• Milk Weed
• Incarvillea delavayi

*Sedum, Photo Source

Plants often need certain conditions for them to thrive so pay attention to the instructions provided by the nursery. All plants mostly require quality soil and fertilizer, you can pick up high-quality soil and other landscaping supplies at Rockland. Or depending on how much moisture and/or protection the roots require, you may want add mulch for your garden beds. (Read more about the difference between mulch, soil and bark chips and how to choose for your backyard.)

For questions regarding your landscape plans or about Edmonton landscaping supplies, please visit us in St. Albert or join our community of gardeners, DIYers and expert landscapers.

*Featured Image Photo Source