Shrubs that tolerate shade and dry conditions?

[Cornonthecob]

Currently the 3 shrubs (newly planted) we have are not doing too well, it appears the rain is not reaching the shrubs as they are being sheltered by the trees above, I guess we could trim back the trees but a PITA to do that and constantly water! I found them wilted this morning, have watered and they perked back up again but probably better we change them. I attach a picture few hours after watering.

Other than plastic shrubs any recommendations and suggestions much appreciated, thanks.

[cakeymakey]

Sadly Hydrangeas are very thirsty plants so you couldn't have planted much worse......I always struggle to grow them and if they are new planted they need a water every day.....

In my hot sunny chalky garden I have several trees and thus, some aresa of dry shade beneath. Plants that I find grow reasonably well there are:
Sarcococca (Christmas Box), Eleagnus, some Spirea sp. and Skimmias

[MehsMum]

I have a holly growing happily if slowly in dry shade, and there was a berberis there too before I chopped it down for being too bloody spiky right next to the path.

I have a sarcocca along there too, which is doing okay, and some ferns which seem quite happy but I can't remember what sort they are.

Good luck: dry shade is a real pain.

[shovetheholly]

Awwww, I think it's nice! I'd put a shade loving climber or two at the back that will cover the fence (I have clematis armandii in my garden, which has the bonus of being evergreen), then plant with dry shade tolerant plants.

I'd go for a range of things that will give you interest all year, starting with a few snowdrops and white thalia daffs, moving through an aquilegia (there's a lovely white one called Munstead White), through to summer dry-shade tolerant geraniums, then maybe some autumn cyclamen. I reckon you might just about squeeze all those in!. Light colours like white and pink pop in the shade.

[Cornonthecob]

Thanks for the replies and great ideas! We have some clematis at the other side of our garden, looks lovely! Our gardener has said to persevere with the hydrangeas as the new roots grow! So will see how we get on, we go away for 19 days in august so see how they are when we get back!! Great I have a plan now! The idea of having shrubs was easy maintenance we had nearly £800 worth planted!

While I'm here any tips of how to water when we are not here without the use of neighbours, sprinklers and timers?

Thank you