Planting Help Please

[lostvalleyfarm]

Does anyone know what will grow on the East side? I live in Iowa I think it's zone 4
I've got irises, primrose, shasta daisy and hosta. Would any of those work?
What about shrubs?

It's the only side that's never had ANYTHING growing on. I've only lived here a few years....but the previous owner had nothing there either, so maybe nothing can live.

Thanks

[Newt]

Hi Lost Valley Farm,
When you say

what will grow on the East side?

I'm thinking you mean on the east side of a house or building. If so, anything that would require part sun or even part shade. Part sun would be 4 to 6 hours of sun and part shade would be 2 to 4 hours of sun. Your hostas would do fine there and possibly your irises, depending on which type(s) you have. Maybe nothing has been grown there because the soil is compacted and not enriched with compost. This site should help you id the type of iris you have and what their needs are.
http://www.worldiris.com/public_html...l#anchor741010

To find your hardiness zone take a look here.
http://www.gardenweb.com/zones/zip.cgi

As to shrubs, I'm thinking Kalmia - mountain laurel. You'd have to check the hardiness zones on the specific ones you want, but most are hardy to zone 4. Also look at this site for decidious and evergreen shrubs for ideas. If you want pictures go to www.google.com and use the botanical or Latin name to search. You can also click on 'Images' at google and often get pictures as well.
http://www.roslynnursery.com/

Hope this helps,
Newt