I have deep shade, and there are 2 ground covers that work for me. My favorite is Sweet Woodruff (Galium odoratum). This says it likes moist shade, but I will say that I do not have moist conditions and it is very happy. This is one of the very few plants that will grow under my Norway Maple, that seems to put out a chemical that inhibits growth of just about every plant.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Galium_odoratum

The other one is Pachcysandra, which I am not crazy about, but it is green and grows well in crappy conditions.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pachysandra

For hanging baskets, since they can be moved around, why not find something that you really like, and occasionally move it into the sun to keep it happy? The only flower that I have that is happy in my shade is begonia, which does very well.

You have me stumped with the English ivy. Obviously it is not happy with your dirt in front of the porch.

Lamiastrum

http://www.perennialreference.com/perennials/lamiastrum.html

Honestly, for the most part I'm sorry I ever planted this stuff, it takes over the world and crowds everything else out.

But it is a real survivor, even deep dry shade.

For hanging baskets in very deep shade, if its too dark for even impatiens to bloom, I would go with interesting low-light foliage plants such as the same kinds of things like lamiastrum, vinca minor, ivy, even throw some tropicals in there. Ferns might be fun, too.

I might try the false variety.

you noticed that I did not mention it----for the same reason that you stated. Some things are just too invasive for me to, in good conscience, recommend. But you are right, it does work for deep shade. Now if only it could be controlled it would be perfect!

I also did not mention bishop's weed (Aegopodium podagraria) for the same reason.

Plant them like plugs. They'll fill in the bare areas over time.

pretty well. I have a lot of shade too.