Growing Vegetables In The Shade UK. I just published some gardening advice for gardens that don’t get much sun. I’ve also been on a mission to provide you with vegetable growing guides… And it got me thinking: can you produce vegetables without full-day sunlight? It turns out that you can, so here’s a list of vegetables to grow in the shade.
These recommendations are perfect for anyone with a restricted quantity of direct sunshine in their yard, whether it’s due to a north-facing outdoor area or being surrounded by tall buildings or fences. Of course, this guide will also be useful for anyone who just wants to make the most of every square foot.
Growing Vegetables in The Shade UK
1. Broccoli
Broccoli thrives in shady areas during the summer because the cooler environment slows its bloom (which turns it bitter).
2. Asparagus
Asparagus prefers full sun but may grow in light shade. This crop is difficult to grow, yet it looks fantastic in a vegetable patch or as exquisite foodscaping.
3. Bok choy
Bok choy, also known as pak choi, prefers a cooler climate, therefore growing it in partial shade will prevent it from bolting or going to seed.
4. Brussel Sprouts
Brussel sprouts grow late in the year, and an October frost can actually improve their flavour. Planting them in the shade will help them survive the scorching summers.
5. Cabbage Growing Vegetables In The Shade UK
Cabbage heads thrive in partial shade, with just enough sunlight to keep them healthy but not so much that the dense leaves become overheated during the day.
6. Carrots Growing Vegetables In The Shade UK
Carrots are another crop that prefers full sun but will thrive in partial shade (although they might be a little smaller come harvest time). For additional information, see our carrot growing guide.
7. Cauliflower
Cauliflower grows more slowly in partial shade, but the wait is well worth it. The full sun might cause cauliflower to blossom too soon and discolour the heads.
8. Kale
Kale leaves can become harsh and bitter in direct light, therefore it’s a crop that thrives in the milder climate of partial shade.
9. Garlic
Garlic is grown by planting a clove in late autumn, leaving it over winter, and then harvesting it the following summer. Bulbs cultivated in partial shade will be slightly smaller than those grown in full sun, but their flavour will not be affected.
10. Kohlrabi Growing Vegetables In The Shade UK
Kohlrabi thrives above ground and struggles in extreme heat. Partial shade improves growth temperatures, although the heads are slightly smaller on average.
11. Leeks
Leeks take a long time to mature and taste best after the first frost of October. And Leeks are another crop that can grow well in full sun or partial shade, making them ideal for a garden that receives a mix of light.
12. Parsnips Growing Vegetables In The Shade UK
Parsnips thrive in the milder temperatures provided by partial shade. They’re also another crop that tastes better if you wait until after the first autumn frost to harvest it.
13. Peas
Snap peas and garden peas both benefit from partial shade and milder temps. Don’t forget to provide them with a trellis or wigwam to climb on.
14. Lettuce Growing Vegetables In The Shade UK
Lettuce grows best in colder temperatures and is good for growing under trees or as a companion crop to taller crops.
15. Potatoes
Potatoes grow best in full sun, but if you don’t mind a lesser yield, they can also be grown in partial shade.
16. Radish
Radish thrives in cooler weather, so putting it in partial shade will help it thrive over the summer. They grow swiftly, making them ideal for staggered planting and educating children about nature.
17. Spinach
Spinach is a low-maintenance crop with lovely foliage, yet it is prone to bolting in hot weather. Growing it in partial shade will allow you to harvest and enjoy this healthy plant for a longer period of time.
18. Swiss chard
Swiss chard is a fantastic alternative to spinach because it can withstand slightly higher temperatures. Even so, it’s a terrific choice if you want to cultivate a range of veggies in the shadow.
19. Turnips
Turnips will have a longer season if planted away from direct sunlight; as the weather warms, the roots lose their texture and flavour.
20. Rhubarb Growing Vegetables In The Shade UK
Rhubarb is a perennial that matures after at least 365 days. The good news is that it doesn’t require much upkeep and will grow happily in partial shade, giving you extra room in sunny locations.
