Select variegated plants to bring light into the shady garden. Although variegated plants are often prized for their attractive foliage, scientists don't completely understand the phenomena that cause variegation. Keep plants' tips pinched back to encourage bushy, full growth. Impatiens, popular shade-loving annuals, can also help highlight dark areas of the garden. At planting time Karen suggests adding blood meal and bone meal to the soil.
Blood meal is a natural source of nitrogen, and bone meal provides phosphorous.
After planting, mulch around plants with ground bark. Mulching helps reduce weed growth, retain soil moisture and give the garden an attractive finished look. Add a fountain to drown traffic noise, and you've created an oasis in the shade.