When it comes to growing herbs in shady areas, there are several options that can thrive even with limited sunlight. It’s important to note that while these herbs can tolerate shade, they still require some amount of light to grow and produce well. Here are some herbs that do best in the shade:
1. Arugula: This leafy green herb is known for its peppery flavor and is great for salads and sandwiches. It can tolerate partial shade, but it’s best to provide it with at least a few hours of sunlight each day.
2. Basil: While basil prefers full sun, it can still grow reasonably well in partial shade. It may not produce as abundantly, but with enough sunlight, it can still provide you with fresh leaves for cooking and garnishing.
3. Parsley: Parsley is a versatile herb that can tolerate both full sun and partial shade. It’s a biennial plant that is typically grown as an annual. It’s great for adding flavor to various dishes and can be harvested throughout the growing season.
4. Dill: Dill is a herb commonly used in pickling and cooking. It prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade. However, it may grow taller and leggier in shade, so providing some sunlight is still beneficial.
5. Chervil: Chervil is a delicate herb with a subtle anise-like flavor. It prefers partial shade and can be grown in areas with limited sunlight. It’s often used in French cuisine and pairs well with fish, eggs, and vegetables.
6. Cilantro: Cilantro, also known as coriander, is a popular herb used in many cuisines. It can tolerate partial shade and is known to bolt quickly in hot weather, so some shade can help prolong its growth.
7. Chives: Chives are a versatile herb that can tolerate partial shade. They have a mild onion-like flavor and can be used in a variety of dishes. Chives also produce attractive purple flowers that are edible and can be used as a garnish.
8. Garlic Chives: Similar to regular chives, garlic chives can also grow in partial shade. They have a mild garlic flavor and are great for adding a hint of garlic to dishes. The white flowers of garlic chives are also edible and can be used as a garnish.
9. Watercress: Watercress is a semi-aquatic herb that can tolerate shade and even grow in shallow water. It has a peppery taste and is often used in salads and sandwiches. If you have a shady spot with some moisture, watercress can be a great option.
10. Alpine Strawberries: While not a herb, alpine strawberries can be grown in partial shade. These small, flavorful strawberries are perfect for snacking and can tolerate less sunlight compared to other strawberry varieties.
When growing herbs in shade or dappled shade, it’s important to monitor their growth and adjust their conditions as needed. Observe how they respond to the amount of sunlight they receive and make any necessary adjustments to provide them with the best growing environment. Starting with a small experiment can help you determine which herbs perform best in your specific shade conditions.
