15 Vegetables That Will Grow In A Shady Garden

While seeking refuge from the scorching summer sun, we often crave the relief of shade. However, when it comes to our gardens, finding ways to thrive in low-light conditions can be a significant challenge. But fear not! By selecting vegetables that naturally excel in shaded environments, you can still reap a bountiful harvest, even when your yard is primarily shaded.

A garden that isn’t in full sun all day isn’t the end of the gardening world, but there are some important distinctions you need to be aware of when growing vegetables in partial sun.

Shady vegetable gardening presents a unique set of challenges that demand a thoughtful approach. Before diving into the specifics of what you can cultivate, it’s essential to understand the underlying principles driving this type of horticulture. By examining the ‘why’ and ‘how’ behind shady vegetable gardening, we’ll establish a solid foundation for success in this often-overlooked yet rewarding pursuit.

Solar Farms, Shady Veggies & Temperature vs. Shade

While many of us would love to create a full sun garden, reality often dictates otherwise. However, it’s essential to understand the significance of sunlight in plant development. Plants rely heavily on solar energy to undergo photosynthesis, which is the driving force behind growth, flowering, and fruiting. In other words, sunlight plays a crucial role in determining how well plants thrive, making it a vital element to consider when designing or maintaining your garden.

Think of your garden as a solar farm and imagine your plants as banks of solar panels.

While direct sunlight is ideal for maximizing solar energy output, even partial sun exposure can be beneficial. In fact, a location that receives at least six hours of direct or indirect sunlight per day can still yield significant results. Similarly, the following vegetables will thrive under these conditions.

Shade vs. Temperature

One of the defining characteristics of several vegetables featured on this list is their affinity for cooler temperatures. In fact, many of these vegetables are classified as cool-weather crops, a group that tends to thrive in conditions with mild temperatures and moderate humidity. As the seasons change and summer arrives, it’s not uncommon for these plants to experience a phenomenon known as bolting, where they rapidly grow towards the sun and lose their desired flavor and texture.

This is often accompanied by an increase in bitterness, making them less desirable for consumption.

Gardeners often make the mistake of assuming that if they plant these vegetables in the shade, they will be able to grow them all summer long.

It’s often misunderstood that cool-season crops thrive in complete shade. In reality, while they may not require the intense heat of summer, most still need a significant amount of sunlight to produce well. The key difference is that they prefer this sun exposure at a slightly lower angle than during the peak summer months, typically occurring in the spring and fall when the sun is at a more oblique angle to our planet.

The cool-weather crops on this list all need at least six hours of sun a day but will tolerate being in partial shade.

When selecting vegetables to cultivate in your garden, consider placing those that require partial shade during the hottest part of the day in areas receiving adequate light but protected from direct sunlight. This will enable you to extend their growing season slightly compared to full sun exposure. Nevertheless, as temperatures soar, most of these plants will eventually reach a point where they become overwhelmed and may bolt or develop an unpleasant bitterness.

It’s essential to monitor their growth and adjust accordingly to ensure the best possible outcome.

But what if I want to grow sun-loving plants, Tracey?

I completely understand where you’re coming from! The allure of tomatoes is undeniable. As someone who’s passionate about gardening, I’m sure you’ll agree that having at least one thriving tomato plant is a must-have for any serious gardener. Before we dive into the solutions later on, let’s take a closer look at the variety of veggies that can thrive in those shadier areas of your garden. You might be surprised at just how many options are available to you.

15 Vegetables to Grow in Light Shade

Get ready to uncover the secrets of gardening in partial sun. To do so, let’s embark on an alphabetical journey through some fantastic vegetable options that thrive in a shaded area with moderate sunlight. Here are the vegetables that will happily grow in such conditions:

Arugula

Arugula, also affectionately known as rocket, is a fantastic choice for a garden bed that receives partial shade. If you enjoy a salad with a bit of attitude, this peppery green is an absolute must-try. However, it’s worth noting that arugula has a tendency to become bitter and bolt when the temperatures rise.

By cleverly situating your arugula in an area where it will be shaded during the hottest part of the day, you can successfully coax more growth out of this sensitive crop than you would otherwise. This simple trick allows you to enjoy the benefits of arugula for a longer period than many other greens.

Beets

Beets are often overlooked for their culinary potential, but I firmly believe they deserve more love. The canned variety that many of us grew up with can be less than thrilling, yet the pickled kind has a certain je ne sais quoi that keeps me craving them all year round. In fact, my son-in-law’s signature pickled beets are a game-changer when mixed with hummus for a tasty snack.

And let’s not forget the delightful addition of a splash of pickled beet juice to a gin and tonic – it’s a surprisingly fantastic combination that I just can’t get enough of.

Even if you don’t like the bulbs, grow beets anyway. The greens are amazing in salads, soups, and stir-fries.

When cultivating beets, it’s essential to note that smaller, more delicate leaves are ideal for salads. This is fortuitously what you’ll tend to produce when growing them in shaded areas – smaller bulbs (which will eventually become bite-sized pickles) and tender shoots. What’s more, these varieties of beet greens will remain productive long after the heat becomes unbearable for lettuce cultivation.

In fact, beets can be grown year-round, with the added benefit of planting a fall crop to extend the harvest period even further.

Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts thrive in cooler temperatures and can be sensitive to warmer weather. Plant them during the spring or fall seasons when daytime temperatures range from 60°F to 70°F (15°C to 21°C), providing at least six hours of direct sunlight. While they can tolerate some shade, reduced light will result in smaller, yet still productive, sprouts. Keep in mind that Brussels sprouts take around 80-90 days to mature, making the fall season a viable option if spring weather doesn’t cooperate.

Interestingly, a gentle frost can actually enhance their flavor, making the wait worthwhile.

Cabbage

Cabbage occupies that delicate balance between thriving in full sun and requiring partial shade. While it can tolerate six hours of direct sunlight, prolonged exposure can lead to dehydration and reduced head size due to the drying out of its protective outer leaves. To optimize growth, it’s essential to strike a balance between sun and shade.

If your cabbage plants are receiving some degree of shading during the day, enrich the soil with an abundance of compost to provide them with the necessary nutrients for healthy development.

Carrots

When cultivating carrots, it’s essential to provide the right conditions for optimal growth. Some varieties thrive in cooler weather and partial shade, but remember they still require at least six hours of sunlight. To ensure success, take the time to prepare the soil before sowing seeds. Loosen the ground to remove any rocks or debris, then mix in some organic matter like compost. This will help prevent unwanted twists and turns in your roots.

If you’re dealing with particularly challenging soil, consider growing shorter varieties or opting for container-grown carrots instead.

Horseradish

It’s understandable to assume that horseradish is just a vegetable, but for those seeking to cultivate veggies in their shade-drenched gardens, compromise can be necessary. For fans of this pungent root, it may come as a surprise to consider growing it themselves. As you embark on the journey of cultivating your own horseradish, you’ll likely marvel at how you ever settled for the flavorless, store-bought alternative.

With guidance from Madison, learning to grow your own horseradish is just around the corner.

Kale

While many gardeners assume that kale requires full sun to thrive, the truth is that it can grow well in partial shade too. In fact, kale’s flavor profile is enhanced when it receives less direct sunlight. This is because strong summer sun can cause the plant to become bitter, whereas a little shade allows its natural sweetness to shine through. As an added bonus, kale becomes even sweeter after experiencing a few frosts, making it perfect for snacking on raw or cooking into delicious meals.

When growing kale in partial shade, look for varieties with smaller leaves, such as ‘Dazzling Blue’, which will produce healthy growth and robust harvests.

Lettuce

When growing lettuce, keep in mind that it thrives in cool temperatures and partial shade. While some shade is beneficial, too much can lead to leggy growth, requiring experimentation to find the perfect balance for your garden. As summer’s heat intensifies, the crop will become bitter unless you provide ideal conditions. But don’t let this setback discourage you – instead, seize the opportunity to plant a new crop in that empty spot, taking advantage of the seasonal change.

Come fall, when days shorten and temperatures cool, you can restart lettuce production for another round before winter’s chill sets in.

Mustard Greens

Mustard greens, a member of the brassica family, offer a more substantial leaf than traditional lettuce. Their slightly spicy flavor profile makes them an excellent addition to stir-fries and soups, with some varieties boasting edible stalks reminiscent of broccoli. For those who’ve previously been hesitant to grow mustard greens, the shade-tolerant nature of these greens may be just the encouragement needed to give them a try in the garden.

Peas

Shelling peas are a springtime delight that can thrive in partial shade, especially if given something to climb. This vertical growth habit not only provides support for the plants but also creates a natural canopy, perfect for planting lettuce or other low-light crops. While it’s possible that the peas may not reach full maturity in shaded conditions, the pea shoots and tendrils are a culinary treasure trove. These tender morsels are prized by chefs and fetch a high price at farmers’ markets.

By growing them at home, you can enjoy these gourmet greens without breaking the bank. For inspiration on how to prepare and enjoy pea tendrils, check out Cheryl’s simple recipes.

Potatoes

You might be surprised to learn that potatoes can thrive in partial shade, as long as they receive a minimum of six hours of direct sunlight each day. For beginners, don’t worry – growing potatoes is remarkably straightforward. In fact, you can even cultivate them in containers like buckets or sacks, where they tend to do quite well. If digging up the tubers at harvest time isn’t your thing, consider growing them above ground using a method that eliminates the need for excavation.

With these approaches, anyone can successfully grow potatoes.

Scallions/Green Onions

When it comes to kitchen staples, scallions are often top of mind for many cooks. Their versatility knows no bounds – from elevating scrambled eggs and ramen bowls to adding a punchy flavor to tacos and more. However, when exposed to intense heat, their pungency can become overwhelming.

Fortunately, there’s an easy solution: grow your scallions in the shade! By providing them with some respite from the direct sun, you can significantly tone down their oniony aroma. And the best part?

Scallions are incredibly easy to cultivate, allowing you to poke a few in every shady nook and cranny of your garden – making them a great addition to any outdoor space.

Spinach

Spinach is another rapid-bolting crop that quickly goes to seed when temperatures rise above 80 degrees. Make the most of your shaded garden by planting some spinach. A spot with partial shade will yield smaller leaves that are often more tender and have a milder flavor compared to those grown in full sun. If you’re a fan of baby spinach in salads, then a shady garden isn’t so bad after all. To achieve the best flavor, plant spinach in succession, introducing a new row every week or so.

Swiss Chard

Rainbow Swiss chard is a vibrant addition to any garden, thriving in partial shade. While it may produce smaller plants with limited sunlight, this doesn’t compromise its culinary appeal. In fact, compact growth ensures tender stalks and leaves that won’t become tough or stringy. To keep your plants healthy and productive, harvest the chard regularly to stimulate new growth.

For added convenience, I recommend freezing the stalks and leaves separately, allowing you to incorporate them into a variety of dishes in the kitchen.

Watercress

Imagine having a super-healthy vegetable that requires minimal maintenance and can thrive in shady conditions – it sounds too good to be true! However, watercress is just that: a perennial member of the brassica family that can be planted once and will continue to provide delicious and nutritious leaves for years to come. This set-it-and-forget-it veggie isn’t just low-maintenance, but also packed with an impressive array of nutrients.

Watercress is an iron and vitamin C powerhouse, making it a great addition to any diet. It has been shown to promote healthy bones, thyroid function, and even eyesight – not bad for a humble green that’s often relegated to fancy finger sandwiches! In fact, watercress is so nutritious that it’s like having your own personal health booster in the garden.

Growing Sun-Loving Plants When You Have a Shady Garden

While it’s comforting to know there are options for growing in shady conditions, what if you’re set on cultivating sun-loving tomatoes or smoky poblano peppers? If your main garden restricts your choices due to shade limitations, it’s time to think creatively and explore alternative solutions.

Get Familiar with Your Shade

As a gardener, one of the most astute decisions you can make is to monitor the sun’s movement throughout the growing season. By documenting your findings in a garden journal or spreadsheet, you’ll gain valuable insights into which areas of your yard receive full sunlight and which are completely shaded. It’s also crucial to identify spots where structures and trees provide partial shade at specific times of day.

This information will prove invaluable when planning plantings, pruning, and other gardening tasks.

You’ll want to do this for the entire season, as it will change.

My first gardening venture took place in the early spring at my sweetheart’s property. I selected an area that initially seemed to receive full sun throughout the day. However, May rolled around and the nearby large oak tree leafed out, casting half of my garden in shade for the remainder of the day. A valuable lesson learned! Despite this setback, we still managed to cultivate a lovely garden.

As you can see from our experience, having a better understanding of which areas receive more sun and which stay shaded is crucial when planning your own garden. Look for spots that consistently get more than six hours of direct sunlight per day.

You don’t need to be able to put a whole garden there, just a pot or two. Most sun-loving plants do really well in containers.

When it comes to container gardening, many people think that a sprawling vegetable variety is the way to go. However, with a little creativity and planning, you can grow a variety of vegetables in pots on your patio, balcony, or in a sunny corner of your yard. Tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, zucchini, and beans are all great options for container gardening, as they’re happy to thrive in full sun.

Don’t forget to think vertically when growing in containers – you can stake and train summer squash varieties like zucchini to grow upwards, freeing up space on the ground for other plants. By considering both horizontal and vertical growth habits, you can make the most of your container gardening space.

Just because you can’t fit all of your veggies into one plot in the sun doesn’t mean you can’t grow them elsewhere.

As soon as you have a sense of the sun’s position, you’re free to get inventive about cultivating sun-loving vegetables in those areas. The shift from viewing your garden as a confined space to embracing every corner of your yard as potential veggie real estate opens up endless possibilities for growth and creativity. With this new perspective, there’s no longer a need to think inside the box – or in this case, the bed.