Do you have an area of your garden that is shaded part of the day? If you think you can't grow anything there, you're wrong. There are many types of vegetables that grow in the shade. Some even thrive when protected from the intense rays of the summer sun.
Trees and buildings in and around your yard can make choosing a garden location difficult. The shadows cast by objects change throughout the day and with the season as the sun changes. Fortunately, there are many edible plants that can thrive in partial shade, partial shade, or just 3-6 hours of sunlight per day.
I have trees around the terrace that shade different parts of the garden during the day. The southern end of the orchard begins in full sun in spring and then transitions to varying degrees of partial sun during the growing season as the sun changes.
I try not to think of the shaded areas as obstacles. Partially shaded locations can provide a perfect microclimate for vegetables that prefer to avoid the strong midday sun in summer.
Understanding Sun Exposure:
There are three basic sunlight terms used to describe insolation during the main growing season:
full sun:Full sun areas receive 6 or more hours of direct sunlight between 10:00 am and 6:00 pm daily. In northern climates where solar power is weaker, plants that need full sun do best with 8 or more hours a day.
penumbra:Part shade or part sun refers to areas that receive 3 to 6 hours of sun per day. Partial sun areas receive 3 to 6 hours of direct sunlight but are shaded for the rest of the day. Partially shaded areas receive moderate shade for part of the day or receive filtered or dappled sunlight throughout the day. Dappled sunlight is where light filters through the leaves of trees.
full shadow:Fully shaded areas receive no direct sunlight or reflected light during the day. An area with a lot of shade is not a good place to grow vegetables. All plants need some light to grow.
Tips for growing vegetables in partial shade
A partially shaded area of your garden is different from one that gets full sun throughout the day. A shady location is a microclimate that can be ideal for growing vegetables that will wilt in direct sunlight.
Partially shaded garden areas provide an opportunity to extend your cool season harvests from spring to early summer. A bit of shade in late spring will help keep leafy greens from souring and spoiling as temperatures rise.
Plant your fall garden in late summer under the dappled tree canopy and the plants will be well established by the time the leaves fall in the fall. The extra available sunlight and cooler temperatures will catapult the growth of your fall vegetables.
A microclimate is the climate of a small area that differs from the surrounding area. Here are some tips to help you embrace your semi-shady microclimate:
Use good quality soil
If you want to challenge your shade-tolerant plants to growing in partial shade, provide them with quality soil with plenty of nutritious compost. Here you are7 tips for building a healthy soil.
If tree roots are a problem, consider growing vegetables in containers or using a raised bed:How to build a square meter garden.
Adjust moisture needs
The watering needs of your shaded garden are different than those of a garden in full sun. Moisture does not evaporate as quickly in the shade, so you may not need to water as often.
However, if your shady garden is near trees, you may need to water more frequently as your plants compete with the trees for moisture. In addition, the canopy can prevent rain from reaching your plants. Water when the soil is dry and mulch to conserve moisture.5 ways organic mulch will help your garden.
Beware of pests
Shady, cool areas are very welcome for snails. Consider using a border of crushed egg shells to deter slugs or create a hospitable habitat for slugs.Attract frogs and toadsfor your garden
Expect slower ripening times
Vegetables that prefer more sunlight but can grow in the shade grow more slowly. Expect to wait a little longer for plants to mature than stated on the seed packet to compensate for the non-ideal growing conditions.
Consider starting seedlings indoors
Start your own seed transplants indoors and plant them in your shady garden when space opens up for them10 levels to move around the house.
Sow seeds straight into your garden
Some plants are easy to grow from seeds planted in your garden. Here you are13 Simply sow vegetables directlyplus advice on planting seeds.
succession plan
Keep your beds producing throughout the growing season by successively planting new plants when space allows. Here you are3 Succession Planting Tipsto maximize your harvest.
More than 30 types of vegetables that grow in the shade
Although heat-loving tomatoes, melons, and peppers prefer to drink as much sunlight as possible, some plants will wilt and die in hot, sunny conditions. There are many vegetables that grow in the shade, in dappled sunlight, or with only 3 to 6 hours of sunlight per day:
Vegetables that bear fruit from a flower, such as cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, and squash, do not tolerate shady areas the least. Plant them in full sun areas that get the most direct sunlight each day.
Root vegetables like beets, carrots, and potatoes grow in partially shaded areas that receive less direct sunlight but will appreciate at least half a day of full sun and some partial shade.
Leafy greens like Swiss chard, spinach, and leaf lettuces are the most shade-tolerant vegetables. Keeping these plants in the shade as temperatures rise will actually make them last longer. Plant these plants in areas that receive moderate shade for part of the day or receive filtered or dappled sunlight all day.
Shaded areas pose a challenge for gardening, but don't let that stop you from growing food. Here are 30+ vegetables you can grow in partial shade:
Rocket
A cool seasonal green, arugula appreciates a little shade as the growing season warms to extend harvest. The foliage has a peppery flavor that brightens up salads and soups.
- How do I grow:Sowing directly from seeds in spring and autumn or plant transplants.
- sunlight requirements: Full sun and partial shade.
- Harvest:About 20 days as a baby and 40 days as an adult. Start cutting the outer leaves when they are at least 2 inches long and allow the plant to continue producing crops.
- Varieties to consider:Arugula, Wild Rocky and Dragons Tongue Salad.
asparagus
Asparagus is a long-lived perennial grown for its tender stems that emerge when the soil warms up in late spring and early summer. Harvest yields are highest in full sun, but asparagus plants also tolerate partial shade. Plan to grow more crops to make up the difference.
- How do I grow:Start with seeds or 1-2 year old roots.
- sunlight requirements: Full sun and partial shade.
- Harvest:Plants must be 3 years old before harvest. In the first year, harvest spears that are 6 inches tall and thicker than a pencil, cutting just above the ground. Harvest for just 2 weeks in the first year to allow the plant to establish itself. The second year, 3 week selection and the third season, 4 week selection. Mature plants can be harvested for 4 to 6 weeks.
- Varieties to consider:Jersey Knight, Mary Washington, Pacific Purple
turnip
Beetroot is a cool season grown for both vegetables and roots. Green thrives in partial shade. Although the roots are slightly smaller in partial shade, they are tender and tasty. Enjoy fresh vegetables in salads, soups and stir-fries and earthy roots roasted, boiled, pickled or canned.
- How do I grow:No-till seeds in spring and autumn.
- sunlight requirements: Full sun and partial shade.
- Harvest:About 30 days for vegetables and 60 days for roots. Harvest the beet greens when they are 12.5 cm high. You can cut off a stalk or two from each beet plant without affecting root growth. Harvest the beets when they are about 5 cm in diameter.
- Varieties to consider:Chioggia, Detroit Dark Red, Touchstone Gold or that varietycolored mixed beetrootCollection.
- also see How to grow beetsfor more tips.
hello choi
Bok choi, also known as pak choi and other names, is a type of cool-season Chinese cabbage. Growing bok choi in partial shade can help avoid bolting or seeding as the season warms. Enjoy baby pok choi braised, roasted, fried, grilled or raw in salads.
- How do I grow:Direct seed in spring and fall, or start transplanting indoors.
- sunlight requirements: Full sun and partial shade.
- Harvest:About 30 days for baby bok choy or about 60 days for mature plants. You can harvest the foliage by cutting off the outer leaves to keep the plants producing. Harvest whole plants by cutting stems at ground level.
- Varieties to consider: white caule bok choy, Toy Choi.
Broccoli
Broccoli is a slow-growing, cool-season plant that appreciates some shade as the growing season warms. Broccoli is grown for its edible flower buds. Once the plant flowers, the taste becomes sour. Growing broccoli in partial shade delays flowering of the plant. Enjoy raw or cooked broccoli in salads, soups and stir-fries.
- How do I grow:Start with indoor seeds or plant transplants.
- sunlight requirements: Full sun and partial shade.
- Harvest:About 50 to 70 days. Harvest when the heads have firm, firm buds. Cut off the central head and the plant will produce side shoots with smaller heads for another harvest.
- Varieties to consider: Belstar,green pipe andSantee.
Cauliflower
Brussels sprouts are a long-term crop, planted in spring for a fall harvest. Partial shade helps the plant withstand hot summers. Brussels sprouts taste best after the frost has had a chance to sweeten them a bit. Wait until after several light frosts to start harvesting.
- How do I grow:Start sowing seeds indoors or transplant after all danger of frost has passed.
- sunlight requirements: Full sun and partial shade.
- Harvest:About 90 to 100 days. After a light frost, harvest the sprouts as needed for meals when they are 1 to 2 inches tall. Start picking at the bottom of the stems and work your way up. Remove the foliage from under the bud and turn the bud over.
- Varieties to consider:Long Island Improved, Jade Cross, Rosella Purple und Red Bull.
Kohl
A cool seasonal plant, cabbage grows as round heads of foliage that curl tightly around each other. Cabbage grows well in partial shade, especially in the warm season. Enjoy cabbage raw or cooked in soups, salads, sautéed and fermented like sauerkraut and kimchi.
- How do I grow:Start with indoor seeds or plant transplants.
- sunlight requirements: Full sun and partial shade.
- Harvest:60 to 110 days depending on the variety. The heads look tight and solid. Harvest the cabbage when the heads reach a usable size and cut them off at ground level.
- Varieties to consider:Fast Ball, Early Jersey Wakefield und Danish Roundhead.
carrots
Carrots are grown for their sweet roots. There are so many varieties of carrots that take root in different colors, shapes, and ripening times. The colors range from purple, dark red, orange to light yellow. Carrots grow smaller in partial shade and take a little longer to ripen, but produce a nice sweet crop even in hot weather.
- How do I grow:Directly together.
- sunlight requirements: Full sun and partial shade.
- Harvest:About 30 days as baby carrots and 60 days as full size. Carrots are edible in any size. You can start harvesting carrots like thinning. Harvest ripe carrots as needed when roots are growing.
- Varieties to consider:Chantenay, Danvers, Imperator, Littlefinger and Parisian.
- also see How to grow great spring carrotsfor more tips.
cauliflower
Cauliflower is grown for its flower, which is also called "curd". While white is the most common, there is also a wide range of colors including purple, orange and green. Cauliflower grown in partial shade grows slowly, with smaller buds, but the shade will help keep the buds from discoloring and blooming prematurely. Enjoy it raw, steamed, baked, pickled and fried.
- How do I grow:Start sowing indoors for spring sowing, plant transplants, or direct sowing in late summer for a fall harvest.
- sunlight requirements: Full sun and partial shade.
- Harvest:Depending on the variety, 50 to 120 days. Harvest when the buds reach usable size, before the flower buds open. Cut off the head near the ground and remove the leaves.
- Varieties to consider:Flamestar, Cheddar, Graffiti, Romanesco Veronica und Snow Crown
Saddlery
Celery is a slow-growing, cool-season crop grown for its long, crisp, leafy stalks. Too much heat will cause the stems to become hollow. While growing in partial shade can produce shorter, thinner stems, celery prefers cooler climates and grows healthier in the heat.
- How do I grow:Start sowing indoors or transplant in spring.
- sunlight requirements: Full sun and partial shade.
- Harvest:Approximately 45 days in baby stage or 90 to 120 days for mature plants. As needed, begin harvesting the outer stems when the plants are about 6 inches tall, or harvest the entire mature plant by pruning to ground level.
- Varieties to consider:Conquistador, Tango uUtah boy.
- also see how to grow celeryfor more tips.
Col China
Chinese cabbage is a cool seasonal crop that has a mild and sweet flavor. Also called Chinese cabbage, it has a milder flavor than regular cabbage. It grows into a tall, elongated head of wrinkled leaves. Chinese cabbage does not tolerate high temperatures. Partial shade helps prevent the foliage from becoming unruly and bitter.
- How do I grow:Direct seed in spring and fall, or start transplanting indoors.
- sunlight requirements: Full sun and partial shade.
- Harvest:45 to 60 days. Harvest the outer leaves, which are about 20cm tall, or allow the cabbage to mature and harvest whole heads.
- Varieties to consider: Nikko, Merlot, Minuet und Rubicon.
The
Garlic is grown from cloves for its large bulbs. Grown from cloves rather than seed, garlic is planted in the fall, left in winter, and harvested in summer. Garlic grown in partial shade produces smaller cloves that are just as tasty.
- How do I grow:Plant garlic seeds 4 to 6 weeks before the estimated date of the fall frost. Zones 5-8 should be planted from mid-October to mid-November.
- sunlight requirements: Full sun and partial shade.
- Harvest:Harvest garlic anytime to eat fresh. Garlic is ripe when the foliage on the underside of the plant turns brown.
- Varieties to consider:There are so many varieties of garlic that can be grown. Consider trying German Extra Hardy, Music, Purple Glazier, Inchelium Red, and California Softneck.
- also see Tips for growing good garlicjHarvesting, ripening and storing garlicFor more information.
horseradish
Horseradish is a cool season crop grown for its pungent roots used as a spice. Although a perennial plant, it is best grown as an annual as the roots become tough and stringy in the second year. Horseradish thrives in partial shade when planted in moist, rich, well-drained soil.
- How do I grow:Plant crowns or root cuttings in early spring. Prevent horseradish from spreading by growing it in a dedicated area or container.
- sunlight requirements: Full sun and partial shade.
- Harvest:Dig up the roots in the fall after frost has killed the foliage.
- Varieties to consider:Bohemian, Common and Big Top Westerns.
Kohl
Kale is a cool seasonal crop grown for its slightly bitter leaves. Hot weather can make kale tough and very bitter. Grow kale in partial shade and it will produce green leaves all season long. Kale is very cold tolerant, making it a great fall crop.
- How do I grow:Sow no-till in spring and late summer for fall harvest or plant transplant.
- sunlight requirements: Full sun and partial shade.
- Harvest:About 30 days for tender veggies and 60 days for regular sized ones. Harvest the lower leaves as needed when they reach 6-8 inches in length. Let the plant continue to grow and produce more leaves. Cabbage sweetened after frost.
- Varieties to consider:curly blue dwarf,Lacinado toskanischer Thereforeroot Russian
i will follow
Kohlrabi is an easy to grow cool seasonal plant that forms a sphere on the earth. It belongs to the cabbage family and tastes like a combination of cabbage with a slightly spicy note of radish. Kohlrabi will produce smaller bulbs in partial shade but will appreciate cooler temperatures as summer warms up. Enjoy it raw in salads or coleslaw, roasted or in soups and stews.
- How do I grow:Sowing directly from seeds in spring and autumn or plant transplants.
- sunlight requirements: Full sun and partial shade.
- Harvest:About 55 days. Cut off the bottom of the plant at ground level when the bulb is 2 to 3 inches in diameter.
- Varieties to consider:Early Purple Vienna, Gran Duque, Sweet Vienna
Leek
Leeks are related to onions but have a milder, sweeter flavor. They also don't bulb like onions, making them great candidates for partial shade growing. Expect leeks to grow slightly smaller when grown in partial shade. Use leeks in soups, meat and vegetable dishes.
- How do I grow:Start early with seeds indoors or plant purchased transplants.
- sunlight requirements: Full sun and partial shade.
- Harvest:Depending on the variety, 70 to 120 days. Leeks take a long time to mature and are best harvested in the fall after the frost. Leeks are ready to harvest when the stalks reach about 1/2 inch in diameter or are fully mature. Harvest before the ground freezes.
- Varieties to consider:king richard,Ponchoand tip.
lettuce
Lettuce is a cool season vegetable that sprouts or sets seeds in warm temperatures. Growing lettuce in partial shade keeps the roots cooler, allowing you to harvest longer when the summer heat builds. Plant fall lettuce under canopy trees in late summer and it will thrive when cooler weather arrives. All types of lettuce can be harvested as leafy vegetables or fully ripe.
- How do I grow:Start with seeds indoors, sow directly outside, or transplant.
- sunlight requirements: Full sun and partial shade.
- Harvest:About 30 days for baby vegetables. Gather leaves from the outside as needed and let the plant continue to produce leaves. Loose leaf and butter lettuces ripen in 45 to 50 days. Romaine lettuce matures in 65 to 70 days. To harvest ripe lettuce, cut off the whole heads at ground level.
- Varieties to consider: lettuce, Simpson and Freckles
- homemade seed mats: Sowing small seeds can be difficult. Instead of scattering the seeds and then thinning them out later, you can use seed mats to disperse the seeds before planting them.Visit for the full tutorial.
Mizuna
Mizuna is a Japanese vegetable with a slightly bitter mustard flavor. It grows best in cool climates, but unlike other leafy greens, it slowly dies as the weather warms. Growing in some shade can produce a bountiful harvest even in the summer months. The texture of the lobed leaves pairs well with green salads and is crispy enough to withstand steaming and frying.
- How do I grow:Start with seeds indoors, sow directly outside, or transplant.
- sunlight requirements: Full sun and partial shade.
- Harvest:About 20 days for green leaves and 50 days for mature buds. Cut off young leaves when they are about 3 inches tall, or cut back the head to ground level when mature.
- Varieties to consider:Mostaza Mizuna und Early Mizuna.
mustard leaves
Mustard greens are a fast-growing, cool-season vegetable prized for their pungent mustard flavor. Growing in the shade will prevent the plant from becoming bitter and spoiling. Harvest the young leaves to add to salads, or enjoy the mature leaves fried, boiled, or in soups.
- How do I grow:Start with seeds indoors, sow directly outside, or transplant.
- sunlight requirements: Full sun and partial shade.
- Harvest:About 30 days as tender vegetables and 60 days for ripe leaves. The flavor intensifies as the plant matures.
- Varieties to consider:Red Giant, Ruby Streaks, Osaka Purple und Florida Broadleaf.
Definitely
Parsnips are a perennial crop grown for their slightly nutty-tasting roots. They grow best in low temperatures and are harvested in the fall after the frost has sweetened their flavor. Parsnips tolerate partial shade, which helps keep the roots cool and prevents the soil from drying out. Enjoy parsnips roasted, fried and in soups and stews.
- How do I grow:Sow the seeds directly in spring, after the threat of severe frost has passed.
- sunlight requirements: Full sun and partial shade.
- Harvest:Approximately 120 to 180 days for mature roots. Parsnips are edible in any size. You can start harvesting as thinnings or small roots as needed as the roots grow. If you can, wait until it starts to freeze before harvesting for the sweetest flavor.
- Varieties to consider:Gladiator, hollow crown and spear.
Peas
Peas are a cool-season vegetable that will appreciate partial shade when the weather warms up. Peas and peas are valued for their crispy pods and immature peas. Garden peas, also called English peas or sweet peas, are peas plucked from the inedible pod.
- How do I grow:Sow the seeds directly in spring, after the threat of severe frost has passed.
- sunlight requirements: Full sun and partial shade.
- Harvest:About 30-65 days depending on the variety. Harvest the peas frequently to encourage the plants to continue production.
- Varieties to consider: Oregon-Zuckerkapsel, Super Sugar Snap, Garden Sweet Shelling
fathers
Potatoes prefer cooler weather. While potatoes thrive in full sun, the plants also tolerate partial shade. Expect a lower yield and smaller tubers if you grow potatoes in partial shade.
- How do I grow:Plant seed bulbs as soon as the soil is ready for tilling in spring when soil temperature reaches 45°F.
- sunlight requirements: Full sun and partial shade.
- Harvest:Depending on the variety, 70 to 120 days. For young or early potatoes, you can start harvesting as needed once the plants are flowering. Dig carefully underground, remove what you need and let the plant continue to grow. For ripe potatoes, let the foliage die back before harvesting.
- Varieties to consider:Too numerous to list! I have enjoyed growing Dark Red Norland, Kennebec and Rose Fin Apple Fingerling.
- also see 6 ways to grow potatoesjHow to harvest, cure and store potatoesfor more tips. try it tooGrowing potatoes in containers.
radish
This cool season crop requires partial shade to grow in a warmer climate. The radish is an excellent crop for successive planting and can be enjoyed for its roots and leaves. Enjoy it raw in salads and in a vegetable dish. Try it baked, fried and sautéed. Vegetables can be made into pesto, sautéed, steamed, or added raw to salads.
- How do I grow:Sow the seeds directly in early spring as the soil can be tilled. Plant succession every two weeks.
- sunlight requirements: Full sun and partial shade.
- Harvest:About 20 days or when the radish is about 1 inch in diameter. Vegetables are edible too!
- Varieties to consider: beautiful cherry, French breakfast, showerhead and watermelon mantanghong.
Rhabarber
Rhubarb is a hardy, cool-season perennial vegetable grown for its tart, sour-tasting leaf stalks. Once planted, she doesn't require much maintenance and will continue to emerge from the ground and produce a crop every spring. As children we enjoyed the stalks of the sour leaves raw, dipped in sugar or sweetened and used in cakes, jams, syrups or baked goods.
- How do I grow:Plant root canopies in early spring. Allow the rhubarb to grow for a year before harvest to allow it to become established.
- sunlight requirements: Full sun and partial shade.
- Harvest:At least 365 days. Harvest 30 cm high rhubarb stalks by slicing them with a sharp knife and removing the leaves. Harvest easily in the first few years. Always leave at least a third of the plant.
- Varieties to consider:Canada Red, Colorado Red und Victoria.
swedish turnip
Kohlrabi, also known as Swedish, Canadian or yellow turnip, is grown for its large roots. It is a cross between cabbage and turnips. The roots are larger than turnips and have yellow flesh with a purple tip. Expect slower growth and slightly smaller roots if you grow kohlrabi in partial shade. Enjoy the roots steamed and mashed, roasted or fried. The vegetables are also edible and can be steamed or sautéed.
- How do I grow:Sow seeds directly in spring or late summer for a fall harvest.
- sunlight requirements: Full sun and partial shade.
- Harvest:About 30 days for vegetables and 90 days for roots. Vegetables can be harvested from a height of 15 cm. Dig up the roots when they are 3 inches in diameter.
- Varieties to consider:American Purple Top, Helenor und Laurentian.
Lauchzwiebel
Chives, also known as chives or chives, are grown for their green stems and small bulbs. They add a light onion flavor to salads, stews and stir-fries.
- How do I grow:Sow the seeds directly or start transplanting indoors.
- sunlight requirements: Full sun and partial shade.
- Harvest:Approximately 30 days for pencil size or up to 120 days for mature plants. At any stage, grow 6-inch chives and let others evolve. The onion flavor intensifies with age.
- Varieties to consider:purple forest,Immergrüner Long Whiteand White Lisbon.
- also see Tips for growing onions from seed
Spinach
Spinach is a cool-season leafy green that falls or sprout when the weather warms. Growing spinach in a partially shaded garden allows for a longer growing season for this cool season crop. Add spinach leaves to a salad, sauté or chop with olive oil and garlic and add to spring soups.
- How do I grow:Direct seed in early spring and fall, or start transplanting indoors.
- sunlight requirements: Full sun and partial shade.
- Harvest:About 30 days for green leaves, 45 days for mature leaves. Harvest the outer leaves and let the plants continue producing.
- Varieties to consider:Avon, Bloomdale,butterfly, Space and Tyee.
Mangold
Swiss chard is a leafy green that produces crops from early spring through summer and well into fall. Swiss chard is a great substitute when it's too hot to grow spinach. Enjoy the stems and leaves raw, steamed, and fried. Mix the vegetables into salads, sauté with olive oil and garlic, chop the stalks and add to soups and salads.
- How do I grow:Sow direct seeds or plant transplants indoors.
- sunlight requirements: Full sun and partial shade.
- Harvest:About 45 days for baby vegetables. Harvest young leaves up to 3 inches as needed and grow more foliage from the center of the plant.
- Varieties to consider:bright lights,huge hookand celebration.
tattoo
Tatsoi is a cool season Asian green with small spoon-shaped leaves growing on a rosette-shaped plant. Growing Tatsoi in partial shade prolongs harvests by slowing down plant growth in warmer climates. The mustard flavor pairs well with salads, stir-fries, and soups.
- How do I grow:Sow direct seeds or plant transplants indoors.
- sunlight requirements: Full sun and partial shade.
- Harvest:About 25 days for small vegetables, 50 days for normal sized plants. For small leaves, snip off the outer leaves when they are about 4 inches tall, or prune mature plants back to the stem above ground level.
- Varieties to consider:Roseton Koji und Tatsoi.
they also
Turnip is a cool seasonal crop grown for both vegetables and roots. Warm weather makes the roots woody, so growing in partial shade will help prolong harvests. Plan to harvest smaller roots if you're growing beets in partial shade. Enjoy raw beets in salads or on a vegetable platter, or cooked by roasting, boiling and mashing. Vegetables can be steamed or sautéed.
- How do I grow:Sow seeds directly in spring or late summer for a fall harvest.
- sunlight requirements: Full sun and partial shade.
- Harvest:About 30 days for vegetables and 90 days for roots. Vegetables can be harvested from a height of 15 cm. Dig up the roots when they are 3 inches in diameter. Harvesting the fall crop after the frost sweetens the flavor.
- Varieties to consider:Gold balloon, purple top white balloon, red round and white egg.
Try a small shady garden and see which vegetables succeed. Also, try growing in containers that can be moved to different locations. Knowing what kind of vegetables grow in the shade can help you get the most out of your garden.
Do you have any other tips for growing vegetables in partial shade?
Did you find that one of these tips worked particularly well for you?
I'd love to hear from you in the comments below!
You might also be interested in these garden items
- The 8 easiest vegetables to grow in your garden
- 7 tips for a low-maintenance garden
- 4 tips for growing great spring carrots
- 13 kitchen herbs that grow in the shade
Good planning is the key to a successful garden.
Whether you're new to growing your own food or have been gardening for years, you will benefit from a little planning every year. Check out my eBook PDF for everything you need to organize and plan your garden.Grow a Good Life Gartenplanungsleitfaden.
FAQs
What vegetables grow in shade vs sun? ›
Root vegetables, such as beets, carrots, and potatoes will grow in partially shaded areas that have less direct sunlight, but will appreciate at least a half-day of full sun and some partial shade. Leafy vegetables, such as chard, spinach and salad greens, are the most tolerant vegetables that grow in shade.
What fruits or vegetables grow in partial shade? ›- Arugula. Arugula is one of the quickest growing crops you can grow, with only 20 days to maturity! ...
- Asparagus. Asparagus is a perennial vegetable, and you can't harvest anything until the third year. ...
- Beans. ...
- Beets. ...
- Bok Choy (and similar leafy greens) ...
- Broccoli. ...
- Cabbage.
- Cauliflower.
- Cucumbers. One of the easiest to grow, cukes have very broad leaves, a common trait in many full-sun plants.
- Eggplant. ...
- Peppers. ...
- Squash. ...
- Tomatoes. ...
- Beans. ...
- Beets. ...
- Broccoli.
Beetroot, carrots (baby), chard, kale, kohl rabi, leaf salads, lettuce, peas, runner beans and spinach are all relatively tolerant of light shade. Sowing seeds in modules in bright conditions and then transplanting will get them off to an early start with an established root system.
Can peppers grow in shade? ›If your gardening space is limited or covered, you may wonder if peppers can be grown in the shade. While peppers prefer plenty of direct sunshine, the plants may still be grown in partial shade. However, growing in full-shade is not recommended for peppers. Attempting this will lead to smaller plants and poor yields.
Can beans grow in shade? ›Peas and Beans
They need some sun (about four to five hours per day) to produce flowers and pods, but they tend to fade out as the temperature warms. Planting them in a cool shady spot will lengthen your growing season. Bush beans are a better choice for shade than pole beans.
General guidelines for growing tomatoes recommend full sun, which is usually defined as 6-8 hours of direct sunlight daily. In the South where temperatures are warmer, tomato plants may need direct sunlight in the morning, but shade in the afternoon—especially during the hottest months in the summer.
What fruits like full shade? ›- Blackberries. I remember going to my grandmother's house when I was young, and my cousins and I would pick blackberries grown in the woods behind her home. ...
- Blueberries – Lowbush. ...
- Cherries – Sour or Tart Only! ...
- Chokecherries. ...
- Currants – Black, Red, and White. ...
- Elderberry. ...
- Fig Trees. ...
- Gooseberries.
Tower Tip: Broccoli grows best in full sun. But partial shade can help prevent bolting in warmer months.
Do sweet potatoes grow in shade? ›Be sure to plant your sweet potatoes in full sun to part shade. They generally prefer full sun but appreciate some afternoon shade in hot, dry regions.
What is the most shade tolerant vegetable? ›
Among vegetables, leafy greens are the most tolerant of shade, including kale, lettuce, spinach, arugula and chard. Related to both beets and spinach, Swiss chard tastes a little like both and is fairly easy to grow.
What are the easiest vegetables to grow? ›The easiest vegetables to grow from seed are those that require little intervention besides planting and watering. 'Many vegetables are easy to grow from seed,' says Turner. 'Lettuce, beans, cucumber, squash, radish, peas, pumpkins, arugula and okra would be what I'd consider the easiest.
Can zucchini grow in shade? ›Zucchini needs full sun (at least 6 to 8 hours) and consistently moist soil that is high in organic matter. Some zucchini varieties are vining types that require a trellis or a lot of room to sprawl.
Can strawberries grow in shade? ›Strawberry plants grown in shade aren't as productive as strawberry plants grown in full sun, but they provide a beautiful ground cover and shelter for wildlife, in addition to bearing fruit.
What is full shade for plants? ›Full shade refers to areas in your garden that receive fewer than four hours of sun each day. Most plants that call for full shade will grow faster and flower better if they receive at least 2 hours of direct sun.
Can spinach grow in shade? ›Spinach likes full sun but will tolerate partial shade. Prepare the planting bed by amending the soil with rich compost or aged manure.
How do you grow vegetables indoors without sunlight? ›If you're growing leafy vegetables indoors without sunlight, you'll want blue light. She recommended either a high lumens, low watt fluorescent light or an LED light like the one below. If you install lights that can't be pulled up or down, simply use books to stack the tray closer to the light.
Are there any plants that grow in the dark? ›Examples of plants that can thrive well in total darkness include dracaena, philodendron, also known as heartleaf, Chinese evergreen, and snake plant. Adiantum and parlor palms can also grow well in darkness and still maintain the gloss that comes with sunlight exposure.
Can lavender grow in shade? ›Lavenders demand full sun, although afternoon shade may be appreciated in the hottest climates. Plants are very drought resistant once established, but will flower better if not allowed to dry out.
What vegetables need 4 hours of sunlight? ›Root crops such as radishes, carrots, potatoes, and beets can grow in as little as 3-4 hours of direct sun with light or dappled shade for the rest of the day. Leafy greens such as lettuce, arugula, kale, bok choy, and chard are happy with just a few hours of sunshine each day.
What peppers grow the best in shade? ›
- All Hot Peppers.
- Habaneros.
- Jalapenos.
- Ghost Peppers.
- Red Chiles.
- Ornamental Peppers.
Arugula, lettuce, chard, kale and most other leafy greens are top candidates for partial shade at any time of day, and a longer list often thrives in sites that get full morning sun followed by afternoon shade.
What lettuce grows in shade? ›Lettuce is extremely shade tolerant, but for best results, stick to looseleaf types like 'Red Salad Bowl' and 'Simpson's Elite'. Avoid heading lettuces, which will take more time to mature and yield smaller heads.
Do cucumbers like sun or shade? ›Cucumber plants like sun, but are prone to scorching, so some shade is preferable. Encourage greenhouse varieties to climb to boost yields. Harvest fruits early in the day while it's cool.
Does mint grow in shade? ›Mint grows best in full sun to partial shade, should be planted early in the growing season and is generally hardy to -20° F. Mint prefers moist soil conditions, but excess water will promote root and leaf diseases.
Can basil grow in shade? ›Basil. If you have problems with basil bolting too fast, or the leaves keep wilting during the heat of summer, try planting it in the shade instead. It only needs about 6 hours of sunshine a day.
Will cherry tomatoes grow in the shade? ›However, to make the most of your garden, you'll want to select a tomato variety to grow that will flourish in the shade or partial shade you have available. You can depend on most types of cherry tomatoes to grow happily in shady spots, although you'll see a reduced yield from cherry tomato plants in shady areas.
What happens if tomatoes dont get enough sun? ›Tomatoes need plenty of sunlight each day because that is what the plants use for energy in order to grow large and produce lots of edible fruit. If tomato plants don't get sufficient sunlight, they may not grow to their full size, and may not produce much, or any harvestable fruit.
What fruits don't need sun? ›Blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, and the like tolerate part sun, though with diminished yields. Currants and gooseberries, on the other hand, thrive in fairly shady conditions and feel scalded when planted in full sun.
Can cauliflower grow in shade? ›Cauliflower. ...which will tolerate partial shade, though it prefers full sun. It also prefers cooler temperatures.
Can pumpkins grow in shade? ›
As you probably know at this point, pumpkins require full sun to grow. Avoid placing them in any shady area and do not use partial shade as well. These plants achieve their maximum growth potential under full sun.
Can brussel sprouts grow in shade? ›In fact, Brussels sprouts can be planted in the shade without hesitation. A place in the shade even brings advantages in the cultivation of Brussels sprouts: the vegetable does not tolerate heat very well and is therefore happy to have the coolness of a shady place, especially in summer.
How many sweet potatoes does one plant produce? ›How many sweet potatoes do you get from one plant? Typically, you'll be able to harvest 3-5 tubers per sweet potato plant, which is about 1-2 pounds. But if you live in a warmer climate, you may harvest six or more tubers per plant.
What are the easiest sweet potatoes to grow? ›Georgia Jet. This is the best variety for those living in northern regions because it will mature in 90 days under cooler temperatures. This variety needs ample space to grow because the vines can reach 40" long. Many find the taste to be flavorful and moist with a deep orange flesh and red skin.
What is the secret to growing tomatoes? ›Tomatoes are a warm-weather crop. They don't tolerate frosts, and they don't like cold “feet”. Warming up the soil prior to planting improves early root growth and gets the plants off to a better start. It's a tomato growing secret many gardeners don't always consider.
What vegetable takes 3 years to grow? ›1. Asparagus (Asparagus officinalis) Probably the most popular of the perennial food plants, asparagus can take two or three years to become well established but then can continue producing spears for at least 15 years or so.
What is the cheapest vegetable to grow? ›- Lettuce. You may have noticed the price of lettuce has risen considerably in the past two years. ...
- Bell Peppers. ...
- Garlic. ...
- Winter Squash. ...
- Tomatoes. ...
- Broccoli.
Aim for evening temperatures of 65 degrees Fahrenheit and daily temperatures ranging from 75-95+ degrees. This tall plant does not tolerate shade and can sometimes shade out its neighboring okra plants, so be sure that the sunlight directly faces the plants without casting shadows on each other.
What not to plant with zucchini? ›Avoid planting zucchini and summer squash with all other vining plants which include cucumbers and sweet potatoes as well as pumpkins, winter squashes, and melons.
Can onions grow in shade? ›Onions prefer full sun, especially during the afternoon hours. The heat and light are necessary for proper growth. Onion plants can't be grown in full shade, and those grown in partial shade will be smaller and more susceptible to pests and diseases.
How hot is too hot for tomato plants? ›
When temps consistently hit the 95-degree range, tomatoes tend to stop producing red pigments, which means typically red fruits may instead ripen to orange. When high heat lingers with days above 100°F and nights over 80°F, most tomato ripening stops altogether.
What peppers grow in partial shade? ›Did you know there is a hot pepper plant that tolerates partial shade? It's true! The Manzano Pepper is native to the Andean mountain slopes of South America, where it thrives at temperatures between 40˚- 60˚ Fahrenheit!
Can tomatoes and peppers grow in shade? ›What NOT to Grow in Shade. Heat-loving crops such as tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, squash, and melons simply won't grow without full sun. They need hot, sunny days in order to produce bountiful fruit. Most fruit trees need LOTS of sun.
Does lettuce grow in shade? ›Although lettuce grows fastest in full sun, it is one of the few vegetables that tolerates some shade. In fact, a spring crop often lasts longer if shaded from the afternoon sun as the season warms. You can grow lots of lettuce in a small space, even a container.
Do cucumbers prefer sun or shade? ›Select a site that gets full sun (at least 6-8 hours of direct sunlight per day). Cucumbers like warmth and lots of light! Cucumbers require fertile soil. Prior to planting, add about 2 inches of aged manure and/or compost to the bed and work it in to a depth of 6 to 8 inches.
Will pumpkins grow in shade? ›As you probably know at this point, pumpkins require full sun to grow. Avoid placing them in any shady area and do not use partial shade as well. These plants achieve their maximum growth potential under full sun.