what grows well on north side of house

North Side Gardening: Best Plants for Your Home's Shady Side

By Andrew ThompsonNovember 21, 2025

The north side of your house can be a gardener's goldmine, offering unique growing opportunities due to its distinct light and temperature conditions. While it receives less sunlight than the south side, it's cooler and more shaded, making it ideal for plants that thrive in partial shade. Let's explore what grows well on the north side of your house.

Understanding the north side's microclimate is key to selecting the right plants. It typically receives morning sun and remains shaded throughout the afternoon. This makes it perfect for plants that prefer cooler temperatures and indirect light.

Shade-Loving Plants

The north side's partial shade is a haven for shade-loving plants. These plants not only survive but also flourish in low-light conditions.

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Shade-loving plants can be further categorized into those that prefer deep shade and those that can tolerate some dappled sunlight. The north side's morning sun makes it suitable for plants that can tolerate some light, such as hydrangeas, impatiens, and hostas.

Hydrangeas

Hydrangeas are versatile shrubs that can thrive in partial shade. They produce beautiful flowers in various colors, depending on the soil pH. 'Annabelle' and 'Invincibelle Spirit' are popular varieties that bloom in white and pink respectively.

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Hydrangeas prefer consistently moist soil but are drought-tolerant once established. They also benefit from regular pruning to maintain their shape and encourage bushy growth.

Impatiens

Impatiens are annual flowers that bloom profusely in partial shade. They come in a wide range of colors and are perfect for adding a pop of color to shady areas. 'Super Elfin' and 'New Guinea Impatiens' are heat-tolerant varieties that can withstand higher temperatures.

Impatiens prefer consistently moist soil and benefit from regular deadheading to encourage more blooms. They also make excellent container plants.

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Vegetables and Herbs

The north side's cooler temperatures and partial shade can also be conducive to growing certain vegetables and herbs.

Leafy greens, root vegetables, and herbs that prefer cooler temperatures can thrive on the north side. These include lettuce, spinach, kale, and herbs like parsley, cilantro, and mint.

Leafy Greens

Leafy greens like lettuce, spinach, and kale grow well in partial shade and cooler temperatures. They can tolerate some heat but grow best when temperatures are between 60-65°F (15-18°C).

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Plant leafy greens in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. They prefer consistent moisture and benefit from regular harvesting to encourage more growth.

Herbs

Herbs like parsley, cilantro, and mint grow well in partial shade. They prefer cooler temperatures and can tolerate some heat but may become bitter if exposed to too much sun.

Plant herbs in well-draining soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. They benefit from regular harvesting to encourage more growth and can be grown in containers for easy access.

Embrace the unique growing conditions of the north side of your house. With the right plants, you can create a lush, inviting space that's both functional and beautiful. So, go ahead, explore the possibilities, and let your north side garden flourish.