Expert: Marc Chapelle, RLA - 6/30/2009

Question
I have a very large shaded area in my yard that just won't grow grass.  I have tried many different types of grass and nothing.  I want to plant ground covering.  Which types are more drought tolerant?  I live in in a historic town in a historical district and so the water pressure isn't the best. I have had the sprinklers adjusted and changed and am just tired of all the battles regarding this yard.  I feel that ground covering is my only solution.  It is such a large project I need a plant that is not very costly and can tolerate a smaller amount of watering.  Can you help me with this problem?

Answer
Hello, Jane - Nope.  Grass won't grow in heavy shade.

Shade gardening is one of the most difficult conditions encountered in a landscape.  

Here are 46 suggestions with SOME pictures:
http://www.thegardenhelper.com/shadecovers.html

6 more suggestions:
http://www.flower-gardening-made-easy.com/shade-ground-covers.html

Suggestions with pictures:
http://www.directgardening.com/prodnav.asp?cat_search=Shp&nav=gcv&header=Ground~...

More of the same plants (notice there are only a hand full that will actually work?):
http://www.flower-gardening-made-easy.com/shade-ground-covers.html

As you didn't specify your particular area, here is a web spot that you can look up your own personal USDA zone for further guidance:
http://davesgarden.com/zone/

It depends on your zone and how much "fuss factor" you wish to employ.  There is nothing like local help in selecting the appropriate plant.  For REALLY heavy shade, there is nothing that beats hardscape/pavers/rock, in my opinion.  No water & no light necessary.  

As well, the Historic District may also have limitations as to what you can plant or install (pavers/falgstone/crushed oyster shells, etc).  Worth checking before you spend a lot of $$ on plants or pavers.

Good luck!  ~M