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Low light outdoor plants are specially adapted to survive and thrive in areas with limited sunlight. These plants have unique characteristics that allow them to make the most of available light and continue their growth and development. Some common traits of low light outdoor plants include:
Shade Tolerance: Low light outdoor plants have a high tolerance for shade and can survive in areas with minimal direct sunlight.
Large Leaves: Plants with larger leaves have a better capacity to capture and utilize available light, making them ideal for low light conditions.
Slow Growth: Low light outdoor plants tend to have slower growth rates compared to sun-loving plants. This allows them to conserve energy and adapt to their light-deprived environment.
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Low light outdoor plants offer several benefits that make them a valuable addition to any garden:
Versatility: Low light outdoor plants are incredibly versatile and can be grown in various outdoor settings. Whether you have a shady garden, a balcony with limited sun contact, or even a covered patio, these plants can thrive and add beauty to your space.
Low Maintenance: Low light outdoor plants are generally low maintenance, requiring less water and fertilizer compared to sun-loving plants.
Enhanced Aesthetics: Incorporating low light outdoor plants into your garden can dramatically enhance its aesthetics. These plants often have unique foliage colours, textures, and exciting shapes that can create a visually attractive and diverse landscape.
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Scientific Name: Hosta spp.
Description: Hostas are popular low light outdoor plants known for their large, lively leaves. They come in a wide range of colours, including various shades of green, blue, and variegated patterns. Hostas thrive in shady areas and are an excellent choice for adding texture and dimension to your garden.
Growing Tips: Plant host as in well-draining soil with organic matter. Water frequently to keep the soil clammy but not wet.
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Scientific Name: Various genera and species
Description: Ferns are elegant and delicate low light outdoor plants that add a touch of grace to any garden. They have feathery foliage and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Ferns are well-suited to shady areas and can thrive in moist, well-draining soil.
Growing Tips: Provide ferns with consistent moisture, as they prefer slightly damp soil. Covering around plants can help retain moisture and create a more favourable environment for their growth. Often misting the foliage can also help increase humidity levels, which ferns appreciate.
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Scientific Name: Heuchera spp.
Description: Coral bells are useful low light outdoor plants that offer a stunning show of colourful undergrowth. They come in a wide range of hues, including shades of green, purple, red, and silver. Coral bells are perfect for adding pops of colour to shady garden beds or containers.
Growing Tips: Plant coral bells in well-draining soil developed with organic material. Water regularly to keep soil evenly clammy. Remove spent flowers to encourage continuous up-and-coming and remove any damaged or discoloured leaves to maintain the plant's overall health.
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Scientific Name: Hakonechloa macra
Description: Japanese forest grass is a graceful low light outdoor plant that brings a touch of grace to any garden. It has flowing, arching leaves in shades of green, gold, or variegated combinations. Japanese forest grass thrives in shady areas and pairs well with other shade-loving plants.
Growing Tips: Plant Japanese forest grass in well-draining soil modified with organic matter. Water often to keep soil calmly moist but not wet. Covering around the plants can help hold moisture and order soil temperature.
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Scientific Name: Astilbe spp.
Description: Astilbes are beautiful low light outdoor plants known for their feathery, plume-like flowers that add a pop of colour to shady areas. Astilbes are perfect for creating a romantic and whimsical atmosphere in your garden.
Growing Tips: Plant astilbes in moist, well-draining soil improved with organic matter. Applying a layer of mulch around the plants can help conserve moisture and suppress weed growth.
Read Also: The Art of Companion Planting: Vegetable Garden Design Tips
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Low light outdoor plants thrive in well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. Amending the soil with compost or well-rotted manure can improve its richness and moisture-retention capabilities. Avoid heavy clay soils that tend to become waterlogged, as they can lead to root rot and other issues.
While low light outdoor plants are generally more tolerant of dry conditions compared to sun-loving plants, they still require regular watering to thrive. Check the dampness level of the soil regularly and water whenever the top inch of soil feels dry. Ensure that the plants receive suitable moisture without becoming sodden.
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Low light outdoor plants have lower nutrient foods compared to plants that receive more sunlight. However, it is still vital to run them with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer during the growing season.
Applying a layer of organic mulch around low light outdoor plants can provide several benefits. Mulch helps to save soil moisture, order soil temperature, suppress weed growth, and improve the overall aesthetics of the garden. Use living materials such as shredded bark, compost, or dried leaves as mulch.
Regular pruning is essential to maintain the health and appearance of low light outdoor plants. Remove any dead, damaged, or diseased foliage and flowers promptly. Pruning can also help shape the plants and prevent overcrowding. Follow specific pruning guidelines for each plant species to ensure optimal results. This is the low light outdoor potted plants.
BY SANJANA PANDEY
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