Sunlight is one of the most important factors in garden success. Many new gardeners underestimate how much sunlight vegetables need to thrive.
Why This Topic Matters
Too little sun leads to weak plants and small harvests. Knowing the basic light requirements helps you pick the right spot for your garden.
Why You Can Trust This Guidance
I’ve grown vegetables in full sun, partial shade, and cloudy conditions. This guide comes from those experiences and common advice from gardeners and extension offices.
Full Sun vs Partial Shade
Full Sun
6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight per day.
Partial Shade
3 to 5 hours of light or filtered sun.
Vegetables That Need Full Sun
- Tomatoes
- Peppers
- Cucumbers
- Squash
- Melons
- Corn
- Beans
Vegetables That Grow in Partial Shade
- Lettuce
- Spinach
- Kale
- Swiss chard
- Radishes
- Beets
- Carrots
Step-by-Step: How to Check Your Sunlight
- Pick your garden spot
- Set alarms on your phone
- Check sun exposure every hour
- Count your hours of direct sun
Mistakes to Avoid
- Planting tomatoes where they only get morning light
- Underestimating tree shade
- Planting tall crops on the south side of small beds
FAQs
Can vegetables grow in full shade?
Not really. They need at least some direct light.
Is afternoon sun better than morning sun?
Afternoon sun is stronger, but morning sun is gentler for greens.
Final Summary
Most vegetables need 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight, while leafy greens grow fine with partial shade. Pick your garden spot based on how much light your crops need.