Are you trying to grow vegetables indoors or in low-light conditions? Well, I have a few recommendations for you that you must give a shot! This article is all about growing vegetables in low-light conditions.
You might be told that plants cannot survive without sunlight, and it’s definitely true for most plants, but there are a few out there that can even thrive in shade. Let’s discuss them in more detail!
Vegetables That Thrive In Shade
1 – Lettuce
Although lettuce isn’t one to thrive in complete darkness, it does require fewer hours of sunlight exposure per day to grow optimally. Just 3-4 hours of sun exposure on a daily basis allows this leafy green to stay crisp and tender in cooler, shady conditions.
2 – Spinach
When it comes to spinach, there is a solid reason why this one thrives in shade. It’s because too much sun exposure can trigger bolting in spinach plants and ruin overall yield. Partial shade is ideal for spinach, especially in warmer months when daytime sun can be hotter.
3 – Kale
Believe it or not, kale actually develops a sweeter flavor profile when grown in cooler, shaded areas. It tolerates low light conditions really well and prefers that over longer periods of sun exposure, which can burn leaf tips and lead to a bland, flat flavor.
If you’re trying to grow the best-tasting kale, definitely consider growing it in a pot in your garage or some other shaded area.
4 – Radishes
Alright, I will admit that radishes aren’t the “biggest” fans of low-light conditions. However, they can still grow very well in dappled shade as long as care and maintenance is proper. The only problem you might face with growing this vegetable in the shade is that it can take slightly longer to mature.
5 – Swiss Chard
Swiss chard grows extremely well in partial shade and prefers to stay out of direct sunlight for healthy, long-term growth. Keeping this vibrant leafy green out of blasting sunlight, especially in warmer weather is key to getting tender, flavorful leaves.
6 – Carrots
Frankly, carrots do thrive in some sun and need it to grow as quickly as they can. However, if planting in a shaded, low-light area is your only option, go for it. They can still develop quite well in partial shade. Just keep in mind that they might take slightly longer to mature.
7 – Beets
Beets actually tolerate low-light conditions really well and can thrive in it as long as they’re cared for properly and watered on time. The good thing about beets is that no part of this vegetable goes to waste; both the roots and leafy green parts are edible and very delicious.
8 – Green Onions (Scallions)
Green onions are easily accessible and can even be grown indoors if you prefer that. Fortunately for you, they love low-light environments and will grow without any trouble whatsoever. Just make sure to provide them with adequate nutrients and keep the soil moist for the best results.
9 – Arugula
A shade-loving plant list can’t be complete without arugula. Similar to spinach, arugula can have bolting issues if kept exposed to heat and sunlight for too long. This leafy green prefers cooler temperatures and shade for strong and healthy growth.
Conclusion
Growing up, I believed sunlight was essential for plant growth. I mean how would plants grow without it, right…? And, this belief was right to a certain extent.
However, now that I’ve gained more wisdom and experience in the world of gardening, I realize there are many plants out there that thrive without direct sunlight or only need a little bit of it to grow maximally.
If you live in a region that has shorter days or somewhere where there’s no access to sunlight for growing plants, definitely do give the vegetables above a try!
