How to create a shady garden this summer

When the summer sun bears down, shade brings an instant sense of calm. From the dappled light beneath a tree to the shelter of a pergola or shade sail, the right set-up can turn even the hottest corner of the garden into a cool, inviting escape.

Plant shady trees

Trees bring shade, structure and life to any garden, and a single well-placed tree can become a striking focal point.

Compact to medium-sized trees, such as frangipani, dwarf crepe myrtles, maples, Chinese Elm, lilly pilly, tulipwood (Harpullia pendula), and Zelkova serrata (Green Vase), are ideal for smaller spaces, offering dappled shade and visual interest without overwhelming the garden.

Climbing plants can take this further. Trained over pergolas, arbours, trellises or fences, evergreen climbers like passionfruit, star jasmine and wonga wonga (Pandorea pandorana) provide shade while bringing colour and texture. Deciduous vines such as wisteria, ornamental grape, or Boston ivy drop their leaves in winter to let more light through, yet still offer summer shade.

Plants don’t just block the sun – they actively cool the air. As leaves release moisture through transpiration, they lower the temperature around them, creating naturally cooler spots.

While newly planted trees and vines won’t provide full shade this summer, they lay the groundwork for cooler, more comfortable seasons ahead.

Opt for shade sails

Shade sails provide modern, flexible sun protection.

Available in a range of shapes, sizes, and colours, they are ideal for patios, play areas or seating nooks, and can be tensioned between posts or anchored to your home for instant sun relief.

While usually fixed in place, they can be repositioned or removed seasonally if needed, making them ideal for high-use outdoor spaces.

Place umbrellas strategically

Umbrellas provide shade exactly where you need it.

Cantilever or free-standing designs can be installed permanently over patios, decks or outdoor dining areas for long-term coverage, while smaller models offer flexibility to move or adjust as needed.

Larger umbrellas create reliable shade for entertaining, and for extra adaptability, retractable awnings extend or retract as needed, making it easy to enjoy shade exactly where and when you want it.

Consider pergolas and arbours

Pergolas and arbours aren’t just practical – they make a garden statement while defining spaces for dining, relaxing or entertaining. Pergolas can be left open for a sleek, architectural look or paired with climbing plants to create a living canopy that softens sunlight and cools the space. Slatted or lattice designs allow dappled light to pass through, while greenery adds texture and seasonal interest.

Tammy Huynh is a horticulturist, presenter on Gardening Australia and the owner of Leaf an Impression.