Tuesday January 24th

Posted by Alistair on Tuesday, January 24th, 2006

An east facing border can be a little difficult to plant up to the best effect. It gets the early morning sunshine, and then for the rest of the day its in the shade.

Now there are a number of plants suitable for this situation, but one combination to consider is Hostas and Ferns. They look great together, and love the east facing border. There are dozens to choose from ranging from six inches to over three feet tall. Take care to choose ones which are compatible in height, although the Ferns a little taller than the Hostas can look just fine.

Hostas come in many shades of green, blue green, white or cream edged, cream or white splashed through the broad leaves as if painted with a brush. The mid summer flowers although taking second place to the foliage come in shades of pale blue, purple and white and are in themselves quite attractive.

You will also have a lot to choose from with Ferns. Athyrium Niponicum(Japanese Painted Fern), has to be one of the more showy ones with its silver blue fronds only about twelve inches tall. Suited more for the front of the border or as a specimen plant.

In the border between your plants you could plant some spring flowering bulbs, crocus, and daffs, Jetfire is one of the best short varieties with its orange trumpet it looks very effective.

Japanese Painted Fern