Pooh Corner Transformation - Before

This is the back left corner of our back yard, as viewed from our deck. The fence runs along the east and south property lines, abutting two different neighbors' yards. This section of our yard was a problem spot for us, where little would grow. We had been fighting the grass in that corner for seven years. The maple tree foliage overhead blocked most of the light from above, and its roots drained the soil of nutrients.  The canopy of the tree was very lush and full, and we wanted to find a way to take advantage of the cool shade.  So we decided to create a little garden, and put in plants that prefer shade.