Erica Groneman + photo

Erica Groneman

Jun 8
2 min read
bubble 0
row of green vegetables

All vegetables and herbs need at least some sunlight each day to thrive, but if you have a part of your yard or garden that is shaded part or most of the time by a natural or manmade structure, don’t cast that area off as not cultivable. There is a variety of shade-tolerant crops that can thrive in these conditions.

In general, if a vegetable has a blossom (like squash, tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, or melons), it needs full sun. However, veggies that grow underground (like leeks, onions, or root vegetables) do well in shade. Others that grow well in the shade include vegetables that love cold weather (like peas, beans, and herbs). Brassicas (like broccoli, cauliflower, or kohlrabi) are also very shade tolerant. Look for varieties that are part-sun or shade tolerant when you are planning and planting your garden.

By being aware of the sunlight in various areas of your yard, you can optimize your garden space, maximize your crop, and ensure the best chance of success for your plants to thrive. To help you gain a better understanding of how to track the sunlight in your own garden, or potential garden keep an eye out for our Sun Mapping post.

Happy Gardening!

Become a True Leaf Market Brand Ambassador! You’ll enjoy awesome perks, free products and exclusive swag & offers! Help us create a gardening revolution and help others experience the joy of growing!

Leave a comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

0 Comments

No Comments yet! Be the first to start a conversation

  1. Ditch Peat and Embrace Coco Coirnull

    Ditch Peat and Embrace Coco Coir

    Written By Lara Wadsworth If you have gardened, had a house plant, or even been to a garden center in your life, chances are you have heard of peat moss. Peat moss is highly popular in the gardening world as an organic soil amendment and growing medium...


    Ashleigh Smith + photo

    Ashleigh Smith

    2024-12-17
    9 min read
    bubble 5
  2. From Seed to Harvest: Understanding the Stages of Plant GrowthA seedling sprouting from the soil

    From Seed to Harvest: Understanding the Stages of Plant Growth

    Written By Lara Wadsworth There are so many different kinds of plants on the earth that it can be overwhelming at times, especially when all we are trying to do is have a successful garden. But when that garden contains 10 to 40 or more different kinds...


    Ashleigh Smith + photo

    Ashleigh Smith

    2024-12-10
    11 min read
    bubble 2
  3. Lara's 2024 Garden in Reviewgardener holding a carrot in a glove and a tomato plant with green fruits

    Lara's 2024 Garden in Review

    Written By Lara Wadsworth This year was only my third year having a garden to myself. Growing up, I gardened alongside my mother and grandmother, but after leaving home, I lived in apartments for many years without much space for a garden. I finally go...


    Ashleigh Smith + photo

    Ashleigh Smith

    2024-12-03
    13 min read
    bubble 0
  4. Cultivating Christmas TraditionsChristmas gifts, pine sprigs, and ornaments on dark background

    Cultivating Christmas Traditions

    Written By Lara Wadsworth The phrase “Christmas time is here!” will soon echo through your speakers and messaging all around. Most American families, regardless of religion, seem to be celebrating this massive holiday in one way or another. Some may fo...


    Ashleigh Smith + photo

    Ashleigh Smith

    2024-11-26
    8 min read
    bubble 0