Shaded border dilema

Hey guys, total noob when it comes to gardening! This is my first spring/summer as a garden owner and need some advice about my border that is shaded by a fence!
I've currently got some Marigold, geranium and Ulster Blue in the border but I'm thinking they won't really do a lot.
I've made a couple of planters and can make some more so I can transfer them to the other side if needed but just wanted to know what to put in there.
The garden has taken quite a lot of money to get summer ready already so hoping to do something that is low cost even if it means I don't see the benefit until next year.
I also have a very inquisitive 17 month old so need to consider her need to touch pretty much everything she sees.
I've added a photo if that helps.
Any help or advice would be greatly appreciated!

 

Hi Wanderers1981 I’m no expert but I’m sure someone will be along soon who is. If you post what kind of soil you have (light/sandy, heavy/clay, loam) and also what direction the fence faces that will be a big help to folks recommending plants.

 

Normally I would suggest you screw a few hooks into the fence and run 2-3 wires alongside it. That would make for a good climbing aid to grow stuff (Grape Vines, Kiwi, scarlet runner beans, NO IVY!)

Really would help if the sun would reach your side of the fence at least a few hours per day.

If that is not the case you can try and plant sunflowers. Sounds stupid, I know, but there are some that grow to 3 meters and more, so they WILL outgrow the fence and give it a green friendly look. They also are really nice for children to learn.

 

Assuming that fence is facing North or East, then still plenty of plants that will enjoy that aspect.

Ferns are an obvious one, but plenty others like Begoinia Semperflorens , Heucheras, Foxgloves and Hardy Fuchsias for the border to mention but a few and you could put up hanging baskets of Fuchsias, you can still order them for this year as plug plants or complete baskets.

 

I have a Hebe in this shaded spot, my mum gave it to me in a pot and it was in an awful state. I planted in two years ago into ground and it seems to like it there. I don't know what type it is though.