Understanding Sun Exposure

Do you ever find yourself standing in a garden center, looking at plant labels, and wondering what "full sun," "part shade," or "full shade" actually means? Understanding these terms is one of the the first steps toward being a successful gardener.

Plant label example

Breakdown

Here is a breakdown of common sun exposure terms to help you choose the right plants for your yard:

Full Sun: This means the area receives six or more hours of sunlight per day. Contrary to popular belief, it does not mean the plant needs sun from morning until night.

Part Sun / Part Shade: These terms are often used interchangeably and refer to areas that get roughly four to six hours of sunlight daily.

Full Shade: This is for areas that receive three hours or less of direct sunlight per day. You may also see terms like "filtered light" for plants like ferns or ivies.

Reading Between the Lines

Not all "full sun" plants are created equal. Some can handle intense, direct afternoon heat, while others prefer six hours of gentler morning sun.

Heat/Drought Tolerant: If a label says "drought tolerant" or "heat tolerant," the plant is more likely to thrive in hot, intense afternoon sun.

Morning Sun vs. Afternoon Sun: Some plants, like Bacopa, do best with morning sun exposure (east side of a house) because the afternoon sun can dry them out too quickly, causing them to drop their blooms.

Versatile Plants: Some varieties, like Coleus, are very adaptable. Depending on the specific variety, they can work in full sun, full shade, or anywhere in between—so always check the specific tag!

Expert Tips for Success

Measure Your Sun: Sunlight changes throughout the year. Take measurements as close to the gardening season as possible, or even the year before in midsummer, to know exactly what kind of exposure your yard gets.

Observe Your Yard: Walk your yard hourly to note where the sun hits. Remember that outbuildings, trees, and the orientation of your house (like the shady north side) all play a role.

Don't Give Up

Some plants may struggle during the peak heat of midsummer but will "make a comeback" and thrive again when temperatures cool down in the fall.

Need further help? Just ask! If you're at a greenhouse and feel overwhelmed by the labels, ask for help! Many greenhouses and garden centers group plants by their light needs or use color-coded cards to guide you.

Happy planting!

Ricki