Posted: Friday 3 February 2012
by Kate Bradbury
I’ve decided not to take any risks growing veg in my garden this year [...] consequently I’m only sowing shade-tolerant crops this spring.
I’ve decided not to take any risks growing veg in my garden this year. I harvested a reasonable crop of chillies and tomatoes last summer, despite the lack of sun, but probably not large enough to justify the hours of labour I put in feeding and watering the plants. Consequently I’m only sowing shade-tolerant crops this spring.
There aren’t many fruit and veg crops that thrive in shade, but those that do will be fine if well cared for. Most crops need a little sun, however, so if you can offer them a little, all the better.
While you’ll struggle to grow tomatoes, aubergines and pumpkins, look to broccoli, peas, Swiss chard, spinach, kale, and beans, and shade tolerant herbs like chervil and parsley. Radishes and beetroot will also tolerate a little shade, though I’ve not yet managed to get a good crop of beetroot from my garden.
Raspberries, blackcurrants, and some plum varieties will also tolerate a bit of shade, although they may not taste as sweet as they would if grown in full sun, and you'll get a smaller crop (morello cherries are a good option as they don't need to be sweetened by the sun).
You'll need to water less often if you grow crops in shade, and they're less likely to bolt or suffer from scorch.
So, while I’m not ready to have broccoli growing in my ornamental border, I’m happy to rig up a tepee to grow runner beans. Peas can grow in a large container, and spinach and salad leaves can grow in troughs outside the back door.
Easy! What crops will you be growing this year and why?
Samuel.
03/02/2012 at 22:15
Sorrel also has fantastic light and airy flowers, great in any border or veg patch.
See more comments...
