Sunshine Savvy: Picking Plants for Your Garden

Love gardening but confused by how to pick plants for a spot in your garden? Here's the quick guide to get you started:

Know Your Sunshine:

• Full Sun (6+ hours): Perfect for sunbathers (plants like roses and tomatoes) who crave direct sunlight most of the day.

• Partial Sun (4-6 hours): Ideal for those who like a tan (plants like hydrangeas and some veggies) that enjoy some shade in the afternoon.

• Full Shade (Less than 4 hours): Great for shade seekers (ferns and hostas) who prefer dappled light or areas under trees.

Pick the Perfect Plants:

• Full Sun: Zinnias, sunflowers, lavender, dahlias, vegetables (tomatoes, peppers)

• Partial Sun: Hydrangeas, impatiens, columbine (can tolerate some shade), some vegetables (lettuce, carrots)

• Full Shade: Hostas, ferns, certain vines, astilbe, coral bells, hellebore

Bonus Sunshine Tips:

• Watch the Afternoon Sun: Even partial sun areas can get intense in the afternoon.

• Reflect on Light: Light bouncing off walls or fences can brighten shady areas, opening up plant options.

• Think Beyond Sunshine: Soil drainage and type also matter. Amend your soil if needed for happy plants. (For instance, if you have clay soil add 6 - 8 inches of compost to your soil). I also add compost and/or fertilizers to my garden every spring.

• Observe & Experiment: See how sunlight hits your garden throughout the day, research plant needs, and don't be afraid to try different things! A garden will always change, but it's miracle every spring for me.

• Planter Power: Use pots to plant in empty spots in a garden bed, or if a plant isn't thriving in the original spot.

• Future-Proof Your Garden: Consider how big plants will get when choosing their spot. Trust me, your future self will appreciate the space!

By understanding your sunshine and picking the right plants, you'll have a thriving garden that flourishes year after year.

Happy Gardening!

Estelle