A lot of herb lovers think because they have a shaded garden space they
cannot grow herbs.
Many interesting herbs that have medicinal properties, and are also very
ornamental, originated in a woodland habitat. As a result, they thrive in
moist, sheltered conditions, and tolerate shade. In such cool, humid
conditions they evolved delicate, often fernlike leaves, or they developed a
carpeting habit to cover the humus-rich ground beneath trees.
An exception
to this pattern is the foxglove which is specially adapted to grow in
woodland clearings. Foxglove seeds need light to germinate, and can remain
dormant for years until a clearing appears in the trees. This biennial
pattern means that at first you need to replant foxgloves annually to
supplement those that self-seed and to guarantee flowers each year.
Sweet cicely and Geranium robertianum often self-seed prolifically, whereas
periwinkle and sweet woodruff are rampant spreaders. If your woodland is
not to become a jungle you will have to be ruthless about weeding out
seedlings and runners.
Following is a list of 'some' herbs that do well in a woodland setting.
Convallaria majalis; Lily of the Valley
Sambucus nigra; Common Elder
Myrrhis odorata; Sweet Cicely
Mentha suaveolens; Applemint
Vinca major; Periwinkle
Valeriana officinalis; Common valerian/garden heliotrope
Aconitum napellus; Monkshood
Trillium erectum; Bethroot/ wake robin
Geranium robertianum; Cranesbill
Ajuga reptans; Bugleweed
Digitalis lanata; Foxglove
Melissa officinalis; Lemon Balm
Convallaria majalis; Lily of the Valley
Bloodroot
May apple
Snakeroot
Solomon's seal
Planting under certain types of trees can be a problem. The shallow roots of
maple, horse chestnut, or beech trees, for example, will absorb all the
nearby water and nutrients. Some herbs, however, can tolerate these
conditions. Creeping thyme does well. However, try not to plant any closer
than six feet from the trunk (the 'experts' say this, but I have herbs
planted a lot closer than that )
Evergreen trees prefer a slightly acid soil. Herbs that will grow well with
these trees are sweet woodruff, bloodroot, and snakeroot.
About the author:
Karen is a master gardener specializing in herbs and a crafter.
She and her husband have a Backyard Wildlife Habitat,
plus 'Fairy Gardens' where the children can learn about different herbs and hear Karen
read a story about the Garden Fairies and Flowers. For more information about her
herb, aromatherapy and other discussion lists visit Karen's
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