Expert: C.L. Fornari - 5/4/2009

Question
I just moved into a house in Westport, MA and have window boxes that are in full shade.  What do you suggest for annuals for these boxes?

Answer
Hilary,
Although your choices in full shade are fewer than full sun, there are a number of plants that would do well for you.

1. Tuberous begonias or Rex begonias. Tuberous have large colorful flowers and rex have purple and silver foliage.  Angel wing begonias also do well in full shade and have silvery foliage and pink flowers.
2. Caladiums. Most garden centers don't get these in until mid-June, but they are worth watching for. Exotic pink splashed leaves that are white and green - very striking.
3. Impatiens. The regular ones that you buy in six packs do best in shade - New Guinea impatiens don't bloom in full shade.
4. Ferns - look for them in the houseplant section of your garden center. There are many types with many different textures.
5. Spider plant. Again, a houseplant that makes stems with little plants at the end. They are usually variegated and they make stunning additions to window boxes.
6. Coleus. Another foliage plant with dramatic colors of leaves.

Be sure to use fresh soil in your boxes so that it's loose - plants get established and grow so much faster in new soil. Add some time release and organic fertilizer when you plant - the time release (such as Osmocote Indoor Outdoor) will feed though July and the organic (such as Plant Tone or Flower Tone) will take over after that.

all the best,
C.L.