Loss of tree creates opportunity

Q. I took down a large tree in the parkway this fall. What should I do now that my shade garden is in full sun?

A. For whatever reason, your shade garden became sunny, so you need to find a new home for your shade plants.

You can donate your shade plants to a charitable organization, a gift that will be greatly appreciated. If you're struggling with where to donate your shade plants, contact your local garden club. I'm sure members would be glad to help. They might even volunteer to dig up the plants and find them a new home.

Next, you need to determine the amount of sunlight your garden receives daily. This will determine your choice of new plants. Full sun is six or more hours of direct sunlight. Partial sun is between four and six hours of sun per day.

Now the fun begins. What an opportunity, you get to create a new garden!

The first question you should ask yourself: Do I want to change the size and shape of the existing garden? If you want to change the shape and you're thinking of any kind of a curve, lay out your garden hose or a long extension cord into the shape and size to see if it meets your expectations.

After the shape and size have been determined, the next step will be to remove the turf from the new space. This can be done with dark plastic, cut to size and held down by landscape staples. The plastic will kill the grass underneath it. This will take some time. Once this is done, remove the dead grass.

Whether you change your garden size or not, you will still need to amend the soil. Whatever you choose to plant, good soil is essential. Prior to planting, incorporate compost, manure or peat moss to improve soil quality. Spread 3 to 6 inches of the material on the garden area and spade in.

There are so many new hybrids and existing native plants to choose from. The next decision is what kind of a sun garden would you like? Perennials, shrubs and natives are all good choices. You'll need to design your new garden. Think about the garden you want to have and your budget.

Research sun-loving plants you find interesting. Check out various nurseries in your area for ideas. Use graph paper to layout your design.

Spring is an excellent time for planting. Most perennials are planted in spring when there is a greater selection. It is best to plant trees and shrubs in the spring or fall. Always remember when you're planting, allow enough room for all of your plants to mature.

After planting the perennials, if the gaps between your new plants really bother you, fill in the space with some annuals. They will add color and variety until your garden matures.

- Terri Passolt

• Provided by Master Gardeners through the Master Gardener Answer Desk, Friendship Park Conservatory, Des Plaines, and University of Illinois Extension, North Cook Branch Office, Arlington Heights. Call (847) 298-3502 on Wednesdays or email northcookmg@gmail.com. Visit web.extension.illinois.edu/mg.