Knowing the plants that you currently have in you
landscape and having a good idea of the site conditions that you are
growing in plays a big role in how well your landscape can preform. Each side of the house has its own microclimate.
South side of the house:
- recieves most sun exposure all year and is warmest in the winter
- shaded in the early morning and late evening hours
- protected from cold winds
- can be utilized for outdoor use in the spring and late autumn
- provides the longest growing season
- good area for fragile plants from more southernly climates
East side of the house:
- described as being the most moderate zone
- sunny in the morning and shady in the afternoon
- provides the most wind protection
- enjoyable conditions in the morning and afternoon
- utilize this area by using plants that require periods of both sun and shade
North side of the house:
- this zone is coldest, shadiest, and dampest all year
- receives little or no sun throughout the year/ early morning and late evening sun in summer
- direct exposure to cold prevailing winds
- utilization of outdoor living only in the summer months
- this is a good zone for plants that require much shade and that are tolerant to northernly conditions
West side of the house:
- recieves morning shade but has afternoon sun
- this zone receives the most wind all year
- very hot and dryest area during the summer
- shade should be provided if there are going to be outdoor activity here
