Growing Food in 5 Hours of Sun
With 5 hours of sun, grow leafy greens, herbs, radishes, and root vegetables. Fruiting plants like tomatoes need more or a grow light.
5 hours is “partial sun.” It’s enough for leaves, not for fruit.
What Works
Leafy greens:
- Lettuce
- Spinach
- Kale
- Swiss chard
Root vegetables:
- Radishes
- Carrots
- Beets
Herbs:
- Basil (5+ hours)
- Parsley
- Chives
- Cilantro
- Mint
Flowers:
- Impatiens
- Begonias
What Doesn’t Work
- Tomatoes (need 6-8)
- Peppers (need 6-8)
- Zucchini (need 6-8)
- Cucumbers (need 6-8)
- Sunflowers (need 6-8)
Tips
- Morning sun is best. Gentler than afternoon.
- Use reflective surfaces. White wall, foil.
- Grow light supplement. 2-4 hours extends the day.
- Choose shade-tolerant varieties.
Common Questions
Can I grow tomatoes in 5 hours? Cherry tomatoes might produce, but yields are low.
What about herbs? Most herbs do fine at 5 hours.
Is morning or afternoon sun better? Morning. Afternoon sun is hotter.
Can I use a grow light for tomatoes? Yes. Add 4-6 hours.
What about summer? Days are longer. You may get 6+ hours.
What about winter? Much less light. Grow lights essential.