Native ground cover under large Maple tree

I have a small yard with a large maple tree, and I’d very much like to have some ground cover under it for my young child to play. I’ve tried all manner of sod, shade-grown grass seeds, adding topsoil, yet…

Early blooming perennials

Hi there, I would like to plant some perennials that will bloom in the spring, but I don’t know much about gardening! I know that poppies are beautiful, but I’m wondering if there’s any other plants that are relatively low…

Narrow hedge plant for Toronto garden

Hello! Our neighbours are replacing the retaining wall that divides our properties. It currently has an old privet hedge and a (leaning) fence that provide privacy between the yards. Their contractor says the hedge will be lost so we are…

Juglans and foot traffic tolerant groundcover

Hello – looking for options to plant between flagstones in a west facing backyard with a large black walnut tree so quite shady. Planting area under drip line. Scarborough bluffs, so very sandy soil. Many thanks for your advice.…

Which soil to use for native garden in dry shade

I am beginning work on what will be a native plant garden in the west end of Toronto. First I will remove a layer of asphalt, and up to 12 inches of gravel. The soil underneath is sandy, and the…

Mixed Privacy Hedge in Shade

I live at DVP and Lawrence. I believe Toronto is Zone 6a. I want to replace an existing chain link fence across the back of my yard with a mixed hedge -55 feet – gate in the middle (we are…

Climbing Vine

What kind of vine would you suggest to be planted adjacent to a pergola but near a 30 year old curly willow? I have tried the following: climbing hydrangea, trumpet vine, Halls honeysuckle but all have died. The location is…

Norway Maple

Are there any flowers, shrubs, grasses, ferns, etc. that can grow under Norway Maples? I’ve 2 in back garden which is surrounded on 2 sides by 6′ fence = total shade. No flowers survive, some Hostas do survive but even…