Gardening in the shade is a whole new world. The plants that normally thrive elsewhere get very unhappy when you plant them in the shade. But not to worry, here are some of my favorite plants for gardening in the shade.

1. Gardenia

2. Fuchsia

3. Camellia

4. Azalea

5. Coleus

6. Hydrangea

7. Pansies / Violas / Johnny-jump-ups

8. Lobelia

9. Vincas

10. Hostas

Many shade plants prefer a soil that is more acid. Peat moss will help make soil more acidic. And perlite or vermiculite will help them to hold the moisture in and cut down on watering. You can have your soil tested at a gardening center. If you have some spots that you've never gotten anything to grow in, have them checked for things like weedkiller and salt. It's amazing what some people will dump into a garden not thinking of future owners.