Carol,
What container plants would be good to put in front of a large metal entry gate? There is very little sunlight. I would prefer something that would add color to the space.

Thank you!
kwsn01

Hello kwsn,
There are some wonderful shade plants that grow well in containers as well as in the shade. Before I give a list of some of my favorites, let me tell you about a couple of my favorite practices for container gardening:
* Choose a variety of plants that include different textures and forms. I like to use an upright plant, something a little more spreading, and plants that will trail over the sides of the container all in the same container.
* Place the container in a location protected from strong wind but has plenty of air circulation. This will help with disease control.
* Leave enough space a the top of the container for a 1-2 inch layer of mulch. Mulch will help the soil stay cool, conserve moisture, and suppress weeds. Also, make sure there is still 3/4 to 1 inch of headspace between the mulch and the top of the container for growth and watering.
* Use low volume irrigation where possible. Containers filled with lots of plants can use a lot of water. It is easy to forget the water and if you have installed even a simple system attached to a hose bib with an inexpensive timer, your plants will have the water they need.
*Use sterile soil to prevent problems from insects, fungi, nematodes, insects, and weeds.
*Apply slow-release fertilizer regularly according to the label.

Here are a few of my favorite shade plants:
* Illicium floridanum or Florida Anise - a large native shrub, grows to 10 feet with interesting red flowers. A protected species so be sure and secure from a reputable nursery.
* Loropetalum chinense - A spreading shrub that has come into popularity recently. There are several varieties, the white one can be fragrant and the red ones with striking blooms. Shrub will grow to 12 feet and will be spreading. Can be pruned to keep in shape.
* Tabernaemontana divaricata or Crepe Jasmine - An evergreen shrub that grows to 6 feet. Has wonderful, fragrant white blossoms. A little fast growing, but loves the shade and flowers well in the shade.
* Coleus hybrids - Though we grow coleus as an annual, along the Treasure Coast coleus tends to be very long lived if not over watered There are many choices for size and color. You cannot go wrong when using coleus in a container garden.
* Liriope or Border grass - I get to say it again! Liriope is a SHADE PLANT! It does not do well in the sun. When happy, Liriope has lovely lavender flowers borne on spikes above the leaves. Try it in a container instead of playing "Ring Around the House" in the sun.

These are just a few for your consideration. Take a look at these sites for a few more suggestions:
Floridata: Plants for Shady Areas @ http://www.floridata.com/lists/shade_plants.cfm
Shade Plants - Florida Native Plants @ http://www.floridanativeplants.com/articles/shade_plants1.shtml
North Florida Landscape Plants for Shaded Sites (Note - many of these plants grow in South Florida too!) @ http://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/MG252

Thanks for your question and Happy Gardening,
Carol