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Q.Ìý I have a dry and shady woodland area that is very colourful in spring but struggles during the summer. How can I relieve the gloom?

A. Pippa – It is not going to be easy for a lot of plants once the trees are in leaf. Waldsteinia ternate with its gorgeous bright yellow flowers may work there. Also try the Lamiums such as Silver Beacon and White Nancy.

Matt – The Lamium album is lovely. Brunnera macrophylla or Jackfrost could also work, providing blue flowers and heart shaped leaves. They will need watering in and some care beforehand.

Chris – Blechnums such as Chilensee are worth playing with. Geranium nodosum climbs up many plants. The Martagon lily is also wonderful.
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Q. Could the panel make some suggestions for a spreading climber that will provide year round screening? It will be on a north south-facing fence. It needs to be partly self-supporting.

A. Matt - Clematis cirrhosa has evergreen, fern-like leaves and lime green bells. Some of the Ivies, such as Hedera colchica ‘Dentate’, would work and be easy to trim.

Chris – Itea ilicifolia has a fresh green colour with long green tassles. Garrya elliptica has dark green leaves with tassles and is winter flowering.
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