Page 12 - Silver Lakes April 2021

GARDENING

LIGHT AND SHADOW IN BALANCE

By Elize Malan

oth light and shadow are very
important when planning a garden.
BOften, introducing some shade will
lead to a garden without sun in winter or
no sun at all.

During the winter months, it is very
pleasant to find a warm sunny spot in the
garden. The movement of the sun from
east to west is more noticeable in winter.
The lower sun will cast long shadows
towards the south. A garden on a property
on a north facing slope will be warmer and
drier than on a south facing slope.
Leisure areas such as patios should face
north to receive plenty of winter sunshine.
A covered patio will have sufficient shade
in summer with the higher overhead sun.
East facing positions will receive plenty of
morning sun, while west facing areas get Dietes grandiflora
hot afternoon sun. The contrast between sunlit areas and soft delicate foliage such as grasses, Dietes,
shade is the reason why mature gardens Crocosmia and Nandina towards the east
Avoid placing too many big shrubs or are so appealing. or west of your garden, will be viewed
evergreen trees on the north boundary against early morning or late afternoon
of your property. In winter they will cast sun, creating movement and adding
long shadows over the garden. Interesting The trees are big enough to cast deep texture. Lime greens, pinks, whites and
patterns can be achieved by planting slim shadows and this changes with the mauves project a soft morning light very
upright trees or erect a trellis running from seasons and adds mystery. A small bench effectively.
east to west. hidden away with some white flowering
plants in a dark corner is very appealing on
Direct sunlight will pick up variations in a hot summer day. Sunny gardens need bright coloured
flowers such as Marigold, Zinnia and
texture and colour. Mottled or textured Pelargoniums to counteract the effect of
bark of trees need full sunlight for the right In a young garden, a gazebo planted with intense sunlight. At midday the shadows
effect. Dappled shade on brick paving or fast-growing creepers will provide shade are short and the sun will be like a spotlight
lush lawns creates depth and interest. until the trees mature. Using plants with that make pale colours look jaded.
Namaqualand daisies turn their faces to
the sun. Sow the seeds in a position where
the flowers will turn towards the main
viewing site.

Gardens in shade will enhance soft
coloured flowers and Hypoestes, Dietes and
Plectranthus are good choices. During late
autumn, winter and early spring the angle
of the sun is low in the sky and pale colours
will be accentuated. A small garden can
seldom accommodate large trees. Utilise
pergolas, verandas and summerhouses to
contribute to the overall effect of light and
shadow.
Tel: 012 804 1807
Fax: 012 804 0278
Web: www.garden-group.co.za
E-mail: admin@garden-group.co.za

Pelargonium peltatum in full flower Photos supplied by: Carol Knoll

10 INTRA MUROS APRIL 2021