Cedars are heavy drinkers.. and so yes they are likely competing with your hostas and ferns for water.

Re transplanting . the best time to do any transplants are when the plants are relatively dormant which is now. You will have to try to get a good root ball in order to keep the roots intact. In fact with regards to the hostas, it might be a good time to divide the plant and from one plant you can create more hostas. As for ferns, as long as you keep a good rootball, it will be fine.

As for the north facing yard. Describe the amount of sunlight it receives that is length and intensity. Usually north gets very strong sunlight but that all depends on whatever may be casting shadows in that direction. Also describe soil quality.

Ianna

I do have a diagram of the property layout of my front yard. If I could post this it would make more sense. Does anybody know how to do this?

In regards to the soil, I find it mainly dry although we add fresh new soil to it every year. I don't know why. Maybe due to the cedars?

My north facing garden receives little sunlight but it's thriving. Some great plants are Solomon's seal, Japanese anemones (I have the white variety, both in single and double petal) Kerria bush (double) which thrives and is a sight to behold in spring. A Ninebark "Diabolo" is a must-have, as far as I'm concerned. And finally, the hostal "Krosse Regal". It's wonderful. Here's some photos:

This is the Ninebark and "Krosse Regal" to the right:

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Here's the kerria in bloom:

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Heuchera "Purple Palace" is also a winner in this part of my garden. In fact, to be honest, this north-facing garden is my favorite of all my beds.

And finally, here's the Japanese anemone:

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Hope that helps!