Maximizing the Magic of Northwest Facing Gardens
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When it comes to gardening, understanding the orientation of your outdoor space is essential.
The direction your garden faces—north, east, south, or west—can influence everything from the amount of sunlight your plants get to the best design for your garden.
Here I will focus on the unique characteristics of northwest facing gardens, offering guidance on how to make the most of these outdoor spaces.
Check out my other guides for the best plants for your garden based on which direction your garden faces:
Understanding Garden Aspects: North, South, East, or West?
Before delving into the specifics of a northwest facing garden, it's crucial to understand what the direction of your garden means.
The aspect of your garden influences the amount of sunlight your garden will receive throughout the day and therefore what types of plants will thrive.
Here's a deeper look into what each direction means for your garden.
North Facing Gardens
Typically, these gardens get the least sunlight, as they are shaded for most of the day.
This could be ideal for plants that thrive in cooler conditions and don't require as much direct sunlight.
Ferns, hostas, and hydrangeas are all examples of plants that can thrive in these conditions.
However, north facing gardens can pose more of a challenge because of their shade levels.
Read more here about the best plants for a north facing garden.
South Facing Gardens
South facing gardens are usually the sunniest, receiving the sun for the greatest part of the day.
This orientation is perfect for sun-loving plants that need plenty of light.
However, it may be necessary to ensure there is adequate watering as the soil can dry out quickly due to the sun exposure.
Sunflowers, lavender, and roses are examples of plants that enjoy the sun and would thrive in a south facing garden.
Read more here about the best plants for a south facing garden.
East Facing Gardens
These gardens get the morning sun but tend to be in shade during the afternoon and evening.
This is suitable for plants that prefer light morning sun and protection from the intense afternoon heat.
Plants like camellias, impatiens, and azaleas are known to do well in these conditions.
Read more here about the best plants for an east facing garden.
West Facing Gardens
These gardens enjoy afternoon and evening sun.
They can be a great fit for plants that prefer afternoon sunlight or can withstand less constant sunlight throughout the day.
Some plants that can do well in these conditions include honeysuckle, clematis, and marigolds.
Read more here about the best plants for a west facing garden.
Quick Tip:
These are general guidelines and can vary based on other factors such as buildings, large trees, or other structures that may affect sunlight and shading.
It's always a good idea to observe the sun and shade patterns in your garden throughout the day and across different seasons to understand which plants will do best in your specific situation.
The Unique Charm of a North-West Facing Garden
Now, let's focus on the key aspect: the north-west facing garden.
These gardens enjoy a fair amount of sunlight, especially in the later parts of the day.
As the garden aspect is northwest, these gardens get the best of the afternoon sun, bathing the area in warm light during the evenings.
If you're wondering "is a north-west facing garden good?" the answer is a resounding yes, with the right knowledge and care!
A north-west facing garden offers some unique opportunities.
Here's why:
Sun and Shade Mix
North-west facing gardens often enjoy a wonderful balance of sun and shade.
They get less intense sunlight during the hottest part of the day, but the afternoon and evening sun can be quite generous, providing warmth and light.
This creates a comfortable environment not only for a variety of plants but also for enjoying your garden during the day.
Rich in Colors
Due to the garden's orientation, the softer light from the afternoon sun can create vibrant, rich colors in the flowers and foliage.
It's perfect for creating an beautiful, colorful garden that sparkles in the evening light.
Evening Enjoyment
North-west gardens can be the ideal spot for those who like to enjoy their garden in the evening.
Whether it's hosting an al fresco dinner, enjoying a book, or simply relaxing, the warmth and light from the setting sun creates a lovely space to be in.
Wildlife Friendly
The combination of sunlight and shaded areas can attract various wildlife to the garden.
Bird species that prefer cooler conditions, as well as sun-loving butterflies and bees, may find the garden attractive, enhancing its biodiversity.
Visual Interest
The variation in light conditions throughout the day can create shadows and highlights in a north-west facing garden, changing the garden's look and feel as the day progresses.
Learn more about pairing plants together with my guides:
Equip your urban garden space with my recommend top tier tools.
Making the Most of Your NorthWest Facing Garden: Sun and Shade
In terms of sunlight, northwest facing gardens get sun predominantly in the second half of the day.
They can receive four hours or more of direct sunlight during summer afternoons, making them suitable for plants that thrive in partial shade or those that can handle a bit of afternoon sun.
However, the garden design is critical to accommodate both sunny and shaded areas, allowing a diverse range of plants to thrive.
The northwest garden sun isn't as strong as the midday sun in a south facing garden, which broadens your plant options.
Let's dive deeper into how you can truly make the most of your northwest facing garden in terms of sun and shade:
Understand Sun Movement
In northwest facing gardens, sunlight will be most present in the afternoon and early evening.
The intensity of the sunlight will vary throughout the day, with more direct sunlight later in the afternoon.
Understanding the sun's trajectory will help you position your plants effectively.
Positioning of Plants
Place sun-loving plants in areas that receive afternoon sun, while shade-tolerant plants should be positioned in parts of the garden that are shaded by buildings or fences during the day.
Use of Structures
To manipulate sun exposure and shade, you can use structures like pergolas, arbors, or shade sails.
These can provide shade for plants that prefer less direct sunlight, while still allowing plenty of light to filter through for sun-loving plants.
Layering
Consider creating a layered garden.
Taller plants that can tolerate more sunlight can provide shade for smaller, shade-loving plants underneath.
This creates a beautiful and healthy garden dynamic.
Watering Schedule
Gardens with mixed sun and shade areas may require careful watering.
Sun-drenched areas might require more frequent watering, while shaded spots less so.
Monitor the soil moisture in different areas of the garden to establish an effective watering schedule.
For more watering tips, check out my guide How to Use Watering Globes.
Soil Management
The sunnier areas of the garden might dry out quicker, affecting the soil's nutrient levels.
Regularly test the soil and amend as needed to maintain healthy plant growth.
Garden Furniture Placement
If you're incorporating outdoor seating into your garden design, consider where the sun and shade fall at the times you're most likely to be outside.
You might want to position a dining area in a spot that catches the evening sun, for example.
For more gardening tips, check out my guides:
Best Plants for NorthWest Facing Garden
Selecting the right plants for your northwest facing garden can make a world of difference.
Hardy geraniums, for instance, are a great choice, as they are resilient and thrive well in varying conditions.
When planning your northwest facing garden design, consider other plants like hydrangeas, rhododendrons, and ferns.
They can flourish in partial shade, making them suitable as northwest facing balcony plants or a garden.
The selection of plants for a northwest facing garden is crucial as it ensures that the plants thrive and add beauty to your garden.
Here are some of the best plants for northwest facing gardens and why they are well-suited for this orientation.
Hardy Geraniums
Known for their ability to tolerate a wide range of light conditions, hardy geraniums are ideal for northwest facing gardens that have a mix of sun and shade.
These perennials are also excellent ground cover and add a splash of color from late spring to autumn.
Here is the hardy geranium I recommend for northwest facing gardens:
Hydrangeas
Hydrangeas love morning sun and afternoon shade, making them a great fit for northwest facing gardens that catch the afternoon sun.
Their large, bright flower heads can add a fantastic splash of color.
To learn more about growing hydrangeas, check out my guide: Yellow Hydrangea Leaves: Fixing the Problem.
Here is my recommended hydrangea for northwest facing gardens:
Ferns
Many fern varieties like Dryopteris or Polystichum setiferum enjoy partial shade, making them ideal for areas of the garden that are in shadow for part of the day.
They also provide fantastic texture to a garden border.
To learn more about growing ferns, check out my guide: Evergreen Ferns for Year-Round Interest.
Here is my recommended fern for northwest facing gardens:
Hostas
Known for their beautiful foliage, hostas do well in shaded areas but also appreciate some sunlight.
Their preference makes them well-suited to northwest facing gardens.
Learn more about growing and caring for hostas with my guides:
Hosta Care in Winter to Ensure Springtime Splendor
Here is my recommended hosta for northwest facing gardens:
Hellebores
These are perfect for adding winter color to your northwest facing garden.
They prefer partial shade and can take advantage of the sunlight in your garden without getting overwhelmed.
Learn everything you need to know about growing hellebores including what to do with hellebores in summer in my guide here.
My recommended hellebore for a northwest facing garden:
Foxgloves (Digitalis)
These tall, striking plants enjoy partial shade and can add height to your garden border.
Their bell-like flowers are also great for attracting pollinators like bees.
Learn more about growing foxgloves, with my guide Growing Foxgloves in Pots: An Easy Guide.
Here are the heirloom foxglove seeds I recommend:
Rhododendrons
Rhododendrons are shade-loving plants, but they also appreciate a bit of sunlight.
The afternoon sun of a northwest facing garden will help their vivid flowers bloom without scorching them.
To learn more about rhododendrons, check out my guide: How to Propagate Rhododendrons Successfully.
My recommended rhododendron for a northwest facing garden:
Japanese Maples (Acer Palmatum)
These small, deciduous trees prefer some shade and protection from strong winds, making them ideal for northwest facing gardens.
They offer attractive foliage that changes color with the seasons.
My recommended Japanese Maple for your northwest facing garden:
Polyanthus
As woodland plants, polyanthus can handle shade and are a great way to add a pop of color to your garden.
They bloom in early spring, bringing life to the garden after winter.
To learn how to grow polyanthus, check out my guide: Mastering Polyanthus: From Seed to Bloom.
My recommended polyanthus for northwest facing garden:
Astilbes
Known for their feathery, plume-like flowers, Astilbes are a great choice for adding color and texture to a northwest facing garden.
They prefer partial shade and moist, well-draining soil.
Here is the astible I recommend for your northwest facing garden:
When selecting plants for your northwest facing garden, it's crucial to also consider other factors such as soil type, hardiness zone, and how much care and maintenance you can provide.
These plants should be a great starting point, and all have the potential to thrive in a northwest facing garden's unique conditions.
Wrap-Up
Despite what you may have heard about the disadvantages of north or west facing gardens compared to their south or east counterparts, a northwest facing garden can be an absolute joy to care for.
With the right plants and garden design, your northwest facing property can become a lush, green haven.
Your garden direction, northwest, may not be bathed in sun all day like a south facing garden or receive the soft morning sunlight of an east facing garden, but it does offer a unique blend of sunlight and shade that can yield a stunning garden filled with diverse plants and flowers.
The key is understanding the soil, sunlight, and shade in your specific garden and choosing plants that will thrive in those conditions.
Northwest facing gardens offer an opportunity for a fantastic gardening experience.
The moderate amount of sun and shade provides a unique and varied gardening environment.
A northwest facing garden, with the right care and attention, can become a stunning outdoor space that brings joy throughout the seasons.