Soil that is covered with decaying leaf litter and other garden debris is an open invitation for fungus diseases to get started. In the shaded garden, this situation spells double trouble. The cool, damp conditions are the perfect environment for the growth of many common fungus diseases. The gardener can avoid problems such as mildew, [...]
Even though the metabolism of plants growing in the shade is slower than that of those growing in the sun, they still need a steady supply of nutrients. Monthly application of a comparatively mild complete fertilizer is a good practice when the plants are actively growing. A mild fertilizer might be a liquid fish emulsion [...]
Gardeners often fudge a little (or a lot) by placing plants closer together than is recommended. Although you can sometimes get away with close planting in the sun, you definitely take your chances by doing so in the shade.
The combination of soil that stays damp for comparatively long periods of time and the reduced air [...]
The most important rule to remember about watering is, water thoroughly, and let the soil dry out slightly between waterings. Deep soakings help plants develop deep, strong root systems, able to withstand some neglect. Frequent light waterings result in a shallow root system, and encourage disease and weed growth. Keep in mind, though, that it [...]
Many of the organic materials used as soil amendments can also be used as mulches. The difference is in the way they are applied to the soil. A mulch is intended to lie on top of the soil, whereas a soil amendment is incorporated into the soil.
Mulches help keep the soil cool, reduce water evaporation, [...]
The incorporation of quantities of organic matter into the soil results in the superior growth of plants for several reasons, the most important of which is the effect organic matter has on soil structure. The word structure, as it applies to soil structure. The word structure, as it applies to soil, refers to the way [...]
You may already know that any garden soil from the heaviest clay to the most porous sand, benefits from regular additions of organic matter - compost, well-rotted manure, peat moss, chopped leaves, grass clippings, or any of the other widely available materials. When gardening in the shade, the extra time taken to prepare the soils [...]