The Shade Gardening Podcast

Marcus Bergin
  • 4.0 (1)
  • Home & Garden
  • Updated weekly

๐“๐ก๐ž ๐’๐ก๐š๐๐ž ๐†๐š๐ซ๐๐ž๐ง๐ข๐ง๐  ๐๐จ๐๐œ๐š๐ฌ๐ญ: ๐”๐ง๐ฅ๐จ๐œ๐ค๐ข๐ง๐  ๐ญ๐ก๐ž ๐Œ๐ฒ๐ฌ๐ญ๐ž๐ซ๐ข๐ž๐ฌ ๐จ๐Ÿ ๐†๐š๐ซ๐๐ž๐ง๐ข๐ง๐  ๐ข๐ง ๐‹๐จ๐ฐ ๐‹๐ข๐ ๐ก๐ญ Welcome to The Shade Gardening Podcast, your go-to guide for creating beautiful, thriving gardens in shady spaces! Whether you're dealing with limited sunlight under trees, shadowy corners, or just want to enhance your garden with shade-loving plants, this podcast is for you. ๐–๐ก๐š๐ญ ๐ญ๐จ ๐„๐ฑ๐ฉ๐ž๐œ๐ญ: We explore practical tips, plant recommendations, and creative design ideas each week to help you maximize your shaded spaces. From understanding the types of shade to selecting the right plants, we dive into everything you need to know. Topics include: ๐๐ฅ๐š๐ง๐ญ ๐๐ซ๐จ๐Ÿ๐ข๐ฅ๐ž๐ฌ: Learn about ferns, hostas, and other shade-tolerant plants, including how to care for and grow them. ๐†๐š๐ซ๐๐ž๐ง ๐ƒ๐ž๐ฌ๐ข๐ ๐ง: Discover how to create layered, lush gardens using shade-loving plants, textures, and colours. ๐’๐จ๐ฅ๐ฏ๐ข๐ง๐  ๐‚๐จ๐ฆ๐ฆ๐จ๐ง ๐‚๐ก๐š๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ž๐ง๐ ๐ž๐ฌ: Find solutions for issues like poor soil, pests, and low light. ๐’๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ญ๐š๐ข๐ง๐š๐›๐ฅ๐ž ๐†๐š๐ซ๐๐ž๐ง๐ข๐ง๐ : Explore eco-friendly practices that promote healthy, resilient gardens. ๐–๐ก๐ฒ ๐’๐ก๐š๐๐ž ๐†๐š๐ซ๐๐ž๐ง๐ข๐ง๐ ? Shade gardening offers unique beauty and tranquillity, turning often-overlooked spaces into lush retreats. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced gardener, we provide the tools and knowledge to transform your garden. ๐’๐ฉ๐ž๐œ๐ข๐š๐ฅ ๐…๐ž๐š๐ญ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ž๐ฌ: ๐ˆ๐ง๐ญ๐ž๐ซ๐ฏ๐ข๐ž๐ฐ๐ฌ: Hear from experts and fellow shade gardeners. ๐‹๐ข๐ฌ๐ญ๐ž๐ง๐ž๐ซ ๐&๐€: Get personalized advice by submitting your questions. ๐ƒ๐ˆ๐˜ ๐๐ซ๐จ๐ฃ๐ž๐œ๐ญ๐ฌ:Try easy, shade-specific gardening projects at home. ๐–๐ก๐จโ€™๐ฌ ๐ˆ๐ญ ๐…๐จ๐ซ? Whether you're new to gardening or looking to expand your skills, this podcast offers practical tips for everyone. From beginners learning about shade plants to seasoned gardeners looking for fresh ideas, thereโ€™s something for all levels. ๐‰๐จ๐ข๐ง ๐Ž๐ฎ๐ซ ๐‚๐จ๐ฆ๐ฆ๐ฎ๐ง๐ข๐ญ๐ฒ Engage with other shade gardening enthusiasts in our Facebook group and connect with fellow gardeners who share your passion. ๐‚๐จ๐ง๐ญ๐š๐œ๐ญ ๐”๐ฌ: ๐Ÿ“ง Email: theshadegardeningpodcast@gmail.com ๐ŸŒ Website: shade-gardening.com ๐Ÿ“ฑ Instagram: @theshadegardeningpodcast ๐Ÿ’ฌ Facebook Group: Shade Gardening Facebook Group Tune in every week, and let's turn your shady spaces into vibrant, green havens!

  1. Gardening with Deer: Is Anything Truly Deer Resistant?

    1 day ago

    Gardening with Deer: Is Anything Truly Deer Resistant?

    Deer can turn a carefully planned garden into an all-you-can-eat buffet overnight. But is there really such a thing as a deer-resistant plant? In this episode of The Shade Gardening Podcast, Marcus explores the reality of gardening in areas where deer are regular visitors. Rather than chasing the myth of a completely deer-proof garden, he shares a more practical approach: understanding deer behaviour, choosing plants that are less appealing to browse, and designing gardens that remain beautiful even when wildlife occasionally pays a visit. You'll discover why some plants are generally avoided by deer, how to build a more resilient shade garden, and why adjusting our expectations can often be just as important as choosing the right plants. In this episode: โ€ข Why no plant is completely deer-proof โ€ข Understanding deer behaviour in the garden โ€ข Plants that are often more resistant to browsing โ€ข Deer-resistant shade garden favourites including hellebores, epimediums, ferns, brunnera, pulmonaria, and Japanese forest grass โ€ข Designing borders that are both beautiful and resilient โ€ข Finding a balance between gardening and wildlife If deer are part of your gardening life, this episode will help you spend less time feeling frustrated and more time creating a garden that works with nature rather than constantly fighting against it. Join the conversation in The Shade Gardening Facebook Group and share your own experiences of gardening with deer. Happy Gardening.

    12 min
  2. Why Every Garden Has Shade

    18 Jun

    Why Every Garden Has Shade

    Many gardeners believe that nothing grows in shade, but is that really true? In this episode of The Shade Gardening Podcast, Marcus explores one of the biggest misconceptions in gardening and explains why shade isn't a problem to overcome, but an opportunity to create something truly beautiful. From understanding the different types of shade found in every garden to discovering plants that thrive in lower light conditions, this episode will help you look at your shady spaces in a completely new way. Marcus shares practical advice, favourite shade-loving plants, and why learning to work with your garden's natural conditions is often the key to gardening success. Whether you're struggling with a north-facing border, gardening beneath mature trees, or simply trying to make the most of a forgotten corner of your garden, this episode is for you. In this episode: โ€ข Why every garden has shade โ€ข The myth that "nothing grows in shade" โ€ข Understanding different types of shade โ€ข Choosing the right plant for the right place โ€ข Shade-loving plants including hostas, ferns, heucheras, hellebores, brunnera, epimediums, astilbes, pulmonarias, and Japanese forest grass โ€ข Why shade gardens can be some of the most peaceful and rewarding spaces to garden Join the conversation in The Shade Gardening Facebook Group, where thousands of gardeners share advice, inspiration, and photographs of their own shade gardens. Thank you for listening, and remember, some of the most beautiful parts of the garden are often found away from the spotlight. Happy Gardening.

    11 min
  3. Welcome Back to the Shade

    14 Jun

    Welcome Back to the Shade

    After a little time away, The Shade Gardening Podcast is back. In this first episode of Season 2, Marcus shares why he decided to return to the microphone and why shade gardening continues to inspire gardeners around the world. From the calming beauty of woodland-style planting to the joy of discovering plants that thrive where others struggle, this episode is a gentle reminder that shade isn't a problem to overcome. It is an opportunity to create something truly special. Marcus also reflects on the wellbeing benefits of gardening, what listeners can expect from this new chapter of the podcast, and why the wonderful Shade Gardening community has played such an important part in bringing the podcast back. Whether you're a long-time listener or discovering the podcast for the first time, welcome back to the shade. In this episode: โ€ข Why The Shade Gardening Podcast is returning โ€ข The hidden beauty and potential of shaded spaces โ€ข How gardening can support our wellbeing โ€ข What to expect from Season 2 โ€ข An invitation to reconnect with the Shade Gardening community Join the conversation in The Shade Gardening Facebook Group and discover more gardening inspiration at marcusbergin.com. Thank you for listening, and as always... Happy Gardening.

    7 min
  4. Quiet Water, Wild Life: Building Ponds in Shady Gardens

    19/06/2025

    Quiet Water, Wild Life: Building Ponds in Shady Gardens

    Quiet Water, Wild Life: Building Ponds in Shady Gardens Can you really have a pond in full shade? Absolutelyโ€”and it might be one of the best things you ever do for your garden. In this episode, we slow things right down and take a gentle wander into the world of shady ponds and bog gardens. From forgotten corners and damp patches to old sinks and washing-up bowls, youโ€™ll hear just how easy it is to bring stillness, texture, and wildlife into even the darkest parts of the garden. Iโ€™ll walk you through simple setups, share real-life stories from our Facebook group, and talk through the plants, creatures, and quiet magic that water brings to the shade. No pumps. No fuss. Just water, shelter, and a willingness to let nature move in. So if youโ€™ve got a cool corner and a curious heart, pop the kettle onโ€”this oneโ€™s for you.

    24 min
  5. A Week in the Shade: Clay, Questions, and Quiet Discoveries

    15/06/2025

    A Week in the Shade: Clay, Questions, and Quiet Discoveries

    This week in the shade garden, weโ€™re taking a gentle stroll through the conversations that lit up the Facebook groupโ€”from clay soil challenges and shifting light after tree loss, to hosta care, Fatsia fascination, and just how many shade plants might grow in your zone. Weโ€™ll dig into the quiet beauty of Spigelia, the mystery of Arisaema, and the real-life questions that so many gardeners are facing right now. We also explore what it means to garden with clay in low lightโ€”and why itโ€™s not a curse, but a slower kind of magic. Plus, a peek behind the scenes: new members, new spaces, and bringing everything together under one roof at MarcusBergin.com. If youโ€™ve got shady corners and clay underfootโ€”or just need a little encouragement in your garden this weekโ€”this episode is for you.

    13 min
  6. Is It Failing or Just Resting? Understanding Plant Life in the Shade

    29/05/2025

    Is It Failing or Just Resting? Understanding Plant Life in the Shade

    In this episode of The Shade Gardening Podcast, weโ€™re rethinking what it means for a plant to โ€œperform.โ€ If youโ€™ve ever looked at a shady border and wondered why something isnโ€™t floweringโ€”or if a once-thriving plant has simply disappearedโ€”youโ€™re not alone. Shade gardens follow a different rhythm, and many of our favourite plants grow, bloom, rest, and return on their own quiet schedule. Weโ€™ll explore: Why many shade plants bloom briefly and go dormant What โ€œperennial,โ€ โ€œbiennial,โ€ and โ€œshort-lived perennialโ€ really mean Why some plants vanish for a seasonโ€ฆ and come back stronger How to design shady borders that flow across time, not just space This episode is part practical guide, part gentle reassuranceโ€”perfect for gardeners who are learning to trust the slower pace of life in the shade.

    24 min
  7. The Trouble with Weed Fabricโ€”and the Wisdom Beneath Our Feet

    25/05/2025

    The Trouble with Weed Fabricโ€”and the Wisdom Beneath Our Feet

    In this episode of The Shade Gardening Podcast, weโ€™re pulling back the mulch literally and taking a closer look at weed fabric. It promises a weed-free garden, but more often delivers frustration, failing plants, and lifeless soil. Weโ€™ll explore why weed fabric rarely works long-term, how it impacts the hidden ecosystem beneath our feet, and what really happens to the soil when we seal it off from the world. Then weโ€™ll go underground into the remarkable world of the wood wide web the fungal networks and living soil that keep our gardens thriving and talk about better, softer, more sustainable ways to manage weeds and nourish shady borders. If youโ€™ve ever fought with fabric or wondered why your border just doesnโ€™t feel quite right, this oneโ€™s for you. Read the companion blog: https://dappledgardening.com/ Join the discussion in the Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/shadegardening

    16 min
  8. Designing with Softness: How to Create Flow in Shady Bordersโ€จ

    08/05/2025

    Designing with Softness: How to Create Flow in Shady Bordersโ€จ

    What gives a garden that gentle, flowing feelโ€”the kind that draws you in and makes you want to stay awhile? In this episode of The Shade Gardening Podcast, we explore the art of designing with softness in shaded spaces. From choosing plants that sway and mingle to shaping borders that guide the eye with subtle curves and layers, weโ€™ll talk through the elements that create movement, balance, and calm in low-light areas. Youโ€™ll discover shade-tolerant plants that bring grace and texture, design tips for creating natural rhythm, and thoughtful ways to make even the gloomiest corners feel welcoming. Whether youโ€™re starting a new shady border or looking to soften an existing one, this is a gentle guide to help you garden with feeling, not just form. Happy Gardening

    22 min
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About

๐“๐ก๐ž ๐’๐ก๐š๐๐ž ๐†๐š๐ซ๐๐ž๐ง๐ข๐ง๐  ๐๐จ๐๐œ๐š๐ฌ๐ญ: ๐”๐ง๐ฅ๐จ๐œ๐ค๐ข๐ง๐  ๐ญ๐ก๐ž ๐Œ๐ฒ๐ฌ๐ญ๐ž๐ซ๐ข๐ž๐ฌ ๐จ๐Ÿ ๐†๐š๐ซ๐๐ž๐ง๐ข๐ง๐  ๐ข๐ง ๐‹๐จ๐ฐ ๐‹๐ข๐ ๐ก๐ญ Welcome to The Shade Gardening Podcast, your go-to guide for creating beautiful, thriving gardens in shady spaces! Whether you're dealing with limited sunlight under trees, shadowy corners, or just want to enhance your garden with shade-loving plants, this podcast is for you. ๐–๐ก๐š๐ญ ๐ญ๐จ ๐„๐ฑ๐ฉ๐ž๐œ๐ญ: We explore practical tips, plant recommendations, and creative design ideas each week to help you maximize your shaded spaces. From understanding the types of shade to selecting the right plants, we dive into everything you need to know. Topics include: ๐๐ฅ๐š๐ง๐ญ ๐๐ซ๐จ๐Ÿ๐ข๐ฅ๐ž๐ฌ: Learn about ferns, hostas, and other shade-tolerant plants, including how to care for and grow them. ๐†๐š๐ซ๐๐ž๐ง ๐ƒ๐ž๐ฌ๐ข๐ ๐ง: Discover how to create layered, lush gardens using shade-loving plants, textures, and colours. ๐’๐จ๐ฅ๐ฏ๐ข๐ง๐  ๐‚๐จ๐ฆ๐ฆ๐จ๐ง ๐‚๐ก๐š๐ฅ๐ฅ๐ž๐ง๐ ๐ž๐ฌ: Find solutions for issues like poor soil, pests, and low light. ๐’๐ฎ๐ฌ๐ญ๐š๐ข๐ง๐š๐›๐ฅ๐ž ๐†๐š๐ซ๐๐ž๐ง๐ข๐ง๐ : Explore eco-friendly practices that promote healthy, resilient gardens. ๐–๐ก๐ฒ ๐’๐ก๐š๐๐ž ๐†๐š๐ซ๐๐ž๐ง๐ข๐ง๐ ? Shade gardening offers unique beauty and tranquillity, turning often-overlooked spaces into lush retreats. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced gardener, we provide the tools and knowledge to transform your garden. ๐’๐ฉ๐ž๐œ๐ข๐š๐ฅ ๐…๐ž๐š๐ญ๐ฎ๐ซ๐ž๐ฌ: ๐ˆ๐ง๐ญ๐ž๐ซ๐ฏ๐ข๐ž๐ฐ๐ฌ: Hear from experts and fellow shade gardeners. ๐‹๐ข๐ฌ๐ญ๐ž๐ง๐ž๐ซ ๐&๐€: Get personalized advice by submitting your questions. ๐ƒ๐ˆ๐˜ ๐๐ซ๐จ๐ฃ๐ž๐œ๐ญ๐ฌ:Try easy, shade-specific gardening projects at home. ๐–๐ก๐จโ€™๐ฌ ๐ˆ๐ญ ๐…๐จ๐ซ? Whether you're new to gardening or looking to expand your skills, this podcast offers practical tips for everyone. From beginners learning about shade plants to seasoned gardeners looking for fresh ideas, thereโ€™s something for all levels. ๐‰๐จ๐ข๐ง ๐Ž๐ฎ๐ซ ๐‚๐จ๐ฆ๐ฆ๐ฎ๐ง๐ข๐ญ๐ฒ Engage with other shade gardening enthusiasts in our Facebook group and connect with fellow gardeners who share your passion. ๐‚๐จ๐ง๐ญ๐š๐œ๐ญ ๐”๐ฌ: ๐Ÿ“ง Email: theshadegardeningpodcast@gmail.com ๐ŸŒ Website: shade-gardening.com ๐Ÿ“ฑ Instagram: @theshadegardeningpodcast ๐Ÿ’ฌ Facebook Group: Shade Gardening Facebook Group Tune in every week, and let's turn your shady spaces into vibrant, green havens!

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