Straight to the point: Summer stress often appears as wilting plants; however, it might not always be about water. Choosing the right plant for the right location in the landscape is an essential consideration, especially when shade is appreciated (or needed) by certain species. Address this through adding artificial or natural shade, adjusting expectations for plants or selecting a more suitable option to replace poorly performing plants.

Summertime … and the living’s easy, unless you (or your plants) are averse to the full sun or get particularly thirsty. Light is not a black or white issue and instead reflects shades of gray. Similarly, watering is a nuanced topic worth discussing. Too much or too little water poses problems, and simply adding water may not be a sustainable solution for certain species. Bearing this in mind, this brings forth an opportunity to illuminate issues with water and light in the summer landscape.

Let’s start with shade. Yes, certain plants are categorized as full sun, full shade or partial shade, but that doesn’t tell the whole story. Starting with the extremes … a little bit of shade on a full-sun site isn’t the end of the world, and a little bit of sun on a shady site won’t necessarily spell disaster. In many cases, the plant may survive in suboptimal conditions (too much or too little light), but may exhibit reduced vigor, flowering or color. Too much sun? Scorched leaves may occur. Too much shade? Stems may elongate as they look for light. These are just some of the symptoms that may be observed if a particular plant is placed in the wrong part of the landscape.

What about part shade? Well, that can mean many things. Dappled shade, such as beneath a live oak, can filter light, with the canopy branches bearing the brunt of the sun’s rays while allowing some light to pass through. Southern magnolia will provide deep shade all year long with its large, evergreen leaves; however, deciduous trees may only provide shade for part of the year. So, shade conditions can fluctuate seasonally and with different tree species. Part shade can also mean part of the day, where afternoon sun versus morning sun (or shade) can be drastically different. With the sun rising in the east, plants on the eastern sides of buildings or other features receive morning sun (while it is relatively cooler out) and afternoon shade which provides protection from the hottest parts of the day. Conversely, plants on the western sides of buildings receive shade during the cool mornings but face the full sun and hottest temperatures in the afternoon. Southern side? Full sun all day. Northern side? More protection all day. Granted, these are generalities and do not account for every feature that may shield the sun. The path of sun won’t vary, but if it ever does, please let me know!

Does this get you thinking differently about shade? Perhaps. But what does this mean for your landscape in the middle of summer? How can you apply it to your own yard? Consider the following:

1. Right plant right place: Don’t put a square peg in a round hole, pick an appropriate plant for the site. For example, is a beautiful flowering shrub that appreciates at least some afternoon shade from the heat. If provided afternoon shade or consistent dappled shade, this plant will perform well. If inundated with too much light, it may appear wilted, and watering won’t necessarily fix your issues although proper watering is critical. So, either put your Hydrangea macrophylla in a shaded area (or provide shade for it) or pick a more sun-tolerant species. Fortunately, for those married to the idea of a Hydrangea in full sun, Hydrangea paniculata provides the desired, popular flower panicles and can take the sun.
   
   
   
   

   Left: Hydrangea macrophylla in dappled shade maintains an applealing aesthetic. Right: Hydrangea macrophylla could struggle in full afternoon sun. Photos by Damon Abdi

2. Adjust expectations: Louisiana’s summer weather can be stressful, even for plants well-suited for an area. Certain species like Farfugium (tractor seat plant) are sensitive to extreme weather conditions. You may have seen images (or examples in your garden) of the damage this plant takes during winter conditions, but with light pruning it comes back just fine. On the other end of the seasonal spectrum, Farfugium shows signs of stress (curling leaves) very easily during summer. Nothing to worry about too much, as it almost assuredly bounces back by the next morning, but bear in mind that if it will receive full afternoon sun, temporary signs of stress are not unusual and should be expected. Adjust your expectations for plant aesthetics accordingly or pick something less sensitive to the light conditions.
   
   
   

Left: Farfugium shows signs of stress in the afternoon heat but reliably bounces back the next morning. Right: Covers can also cast shade over sun-sensitive species, like Japanese maple. Photos by Damon Abdi

3. Casting shade: Neighboring trees and features may cast shade on a site; however, if absent, limited or out of the way, installing artificial shade may be appreciated. Consider using shade cloths in place over sun-sensitive plants like Japanese maple (Acer palmatum) to give them some relief from the summer sun. Of course, “right plant, right place” is a guiding principle, but if you are willing to modify the site conditions, you can create a better environment. Don’t forget that people might enjoy shade in summer, too! A cover over a gathering area can keep people cool, or if sparser shade is desired, a pergola can let light through while maintaining an architectural element in the landscape.
   
   

A pergola provides filtered light and an architectural element in the landscape. Photo by Damon Abdi

Shade — or lack of it — should be considered when diagnosing landscape issues. Before potentially overwatering plants that seem to struggle in the sun, take a moment to consider if light conditions are the culprit. Remember, it takes a whole host of factors to keep your garden looking good, and all factors should be considered in your management practices.