GARDEN PLANNING: Planting in Partial Shade

Deciding where to situate a garden in a yard with a lot of trees or nearby buildings can seem a bit challenging - With shade being cast all-over-the-place as the sun moves about the sky throughout the day. 

Dear ones, do not despair ! There are many plants that fare well in partial shade or sun conditions and some that even do better than in full sun (ex. leafy greens)! 

Before we get to our list, let's do our best to address the difference between the terms “partial sun” and “partial shade” (‘Cause they’re not the same thing apparently).

You’ll find these terms on seed packets and tags at plant centers, and it definitely won’t hurt to know a bit more about their meanings. 

[Little bits of information like this always reminds me that gardening is truly a science.  - It also reminds me that there will never be a shortage of things to learn.(INTO IT) okay back to these terms...]

“Partial Sun” refers to plants that need at least four hours of sun per day, but often thrive with up to about 6 houts of direct sunlight a day, (So basically they cooould handle more sunlight than stated on the tag or package but not much more)

“Partial Shade” typically means that the plant would do best with four to six hours of sunlight, but no more, 

Alright, now that we got that confusion out of the way… Let’s list out a few plants that are total troopers when it comes to a shady yard!

Chives
Sorrell
Cilantro
Garlic
Mint
Oregano
Lemon Balm
Parsley
Stinging Nettles
Spinach
Green Onions
Mesclun
Mustard Greens

Lettuce
Kale
Collards
Bok Choi
Pak Choi
Komatsuna
Tatson
Chard
Arugula
Endive
Watercress

Plants that Will *Tolerate* Partial Shade:

Peas and beans
Brussels Sprouts
Winter Squash
Root Vegetables
Broccoli 
Cauliflower
Cabbage

My best advice is to really get to know your growing space. Form a relationship with your yard (or deck or balcony) as you observe the sun throughout the day. Let this space be your second home. Know it well. Set up a nook that you can enjoy everyday. 

 Read up on each plant you’re hoping to incorporate into your garden. Know what they like. Think of your plants as good friends, and do what you can to make those sweeties nice and comfy!

“Mmm, dappled sunlight!” said the lettuce joyously.

Thanks for tuning in! Hope you learned something new today!

Check out these resources for more information on planting in partial shade/sun:
https://growagoodlife.com/vegetables-that-grow-in-shade/

https://www.ecohome.net/guides/2295/growing-vegetables-in-the-shade/