Hi, 

Do you know what trees are nearby? If Maples, for example, they  do not tolerate salt content in soils so if they seem to be thriving, the salt use in winter may not be that much. Regardless it is good to know that the plants you are investing in will tolerate the conditions. 

Are there deer present? Does it screw dry or more wet? Those factors will influence plant selection as well. 

The publication by VA Tech “Trees and Shrubs that Tolerate Saline Soils and Salt Spray Drift” lists some species that may be useful. You will have to check if they are tolerant of shade as some will prefer more sun. 

Many perennials and ground covers that have salt tolerance tend to be more sun loving. 

*Ground-covering plants won't necessarily be low, short spreaders, but they will be broad enough (especially when planted so that they grow into each other) to cover the ground.

• Evening primrose Oenothera biennis 
• Sensitive fern Onoclea sensibilis 
• Blue mistflower Conoclinium coelestinum
• Boneset Eupatorium perfoliatum
• Swamp milkweed Asclepias incarnata
  
• Broomsedge Andropogon virginicus
• Seaside goldenrod Solidago sempervirens 

These native plant lists, while not exhaustive, might also help you find suitable species:

• Native Plants for Wildlife Habitat and Conservation Landscaping: Chesapeake Bay Watershed

• Native Plants of Maryland

• Native Plants for Northern Virginia (still applicable here)

• Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay - you can set the search parameters to coastal plain, shade, and the soil moisture and texture you have and check the results for salt tolerance.
  

Let us know if we can help further with plant recommendations or questions. 

Emily

The Blue mistflower and Boneset may be susceptible to deer browsing. You can protect when young and once the population grows if there is some browsing at least they wont wipe them all out. 

For the soil conditions, the swamp milkweed may like it more on the wet side, but personally I have grown it in more dry conditions and its survived. 

For the shrubs anything that is more fragrant will be less likely to be nibbled on: Clethra or Itea will probably be ok. 

Yes that's correct - some are listed as part shade so they may just get a little sparse or leggy if they don't see enough sun. They came from an internal list we have for coastal plains plants and salt tolerance on the eastern shore. I just picked out the ones listed as part shade to shade.  It could be worth experimenting with at least before buying new plants!