 Welcome to Alabama Smart Yards. We're creating beautiful landscapes that protect natural environments. Why? Because it's the smart thing to do. Today Mallory Kelly will talk about making smart plant choices. Some need sun, some need shade. Some need a little of both. It's important to provide the proper environment for plants to thrive in your garden. Different plants require different amounts of sunlight to grow successfully. Before selecting plants, it's important to understand the light patterns in your garden. These conditions should affect your plant choices. Observe your garden. Which areas receive morning or afternoon sun? Where is north, south, east and west? Partial shade is four hours of sun or less per day, where full shade is less than two hours of sunlight per day. Shade-loving plants can tolerate direct sun in the early morning, but extended sunlight leads to bleached, scorched or burned leaves. Many shade plants are adapted to competing with trees. However, some may require supplemental water. Choosing shade-loving plants that tolerate dry sites is the best option. Brighten your shade garden by adding plant varieties that have variegated foliage or bright green leaves. Pick plants with bright flowers like white and light pink blooms. Lighter colors reflect light and brighten dark corners. Shade gardens are often more restful than sunny landscapes. A woodland garden can be especially beautiful with meandering paths and places to sit. Shady gardens have beauty in every season, from early spring blooms to interesting summer textures, colorful fall foliage and winter evergreens. It just takes a little planning and thoughtful plant choices to create garden interest year-round.