One of the most popular questions asked by new gardeners is, “Do herbs need direct sunlight?” The answer, unfortunately, is yes. But it isn’t just direct sunlight that they need. Herbs are plants, and just like other plants, they need certain nutrients to thrive and grow. Sunlight is a vital nutrient for all plants, but certain types of herbs tend to require more sunlight than others.
First, let’s take a look at how plants get their sunlight. Plants use the sun to convert food to energy and to help distribute their photosynthesis so they can grow properly. It’s the process by which photosynthesis takes place that determines whether a plant grows or not. Sunlight also provides warmth, meaning that plants can use this light source in order to store more energy for later use, such as storing up their food in the winter to grow more in the spring.
But direct sunlight isn’t good for all types of herbs. Some herbs grow best in indirect sunlight, at least when it’s hot outside. For example, Rosemary prefers indirect sunlight, as does dill. Here are a few herbs that do better in full sunlight: basil, chives, chervil, parsley, sage, thyme, tarragon and oregano.
On the flip side, mint does best in direct sunlight. This is due to a fact that has nothing to do with the quality of the herb. Mint does best in a warm climate, as its climate demands a lot of moisture and warmth for it to grow properly. And herbs that do well in hot climates usually have the following herb in their optimal growing conditions: lemongrass, coriander, kali and ginger. These herbs are best planted in early spring, while the rest of the herbs should be planted around October.
If you’re wondering does herbs need direct sunlight, think about how you’re using your herb garden. For example, did you plant your herbs in a container or plan them to grow in your soil? Did you plant herbs to grow taller? Then, obviously you’ll need to place them in the sun to get them growing taller. It works the same with shorter herbs, such as bay, chervil, parsley or marjoram.
In fact, some herbs only need partial exposure to sunlight in order to grow well. For example, alfalfa and fennel do best in partially shaded areas. Sunflowers, on the other hand, will only grow well in areas where there is direct exposure to sunlight all day long, so be sure to place them where there’s a lot of sunshine.
The final thing to consider when answering the question ‘does herbs need direct sunlight?’ is whether you have any other plants or bushes that could use the sunlight to benefit as well. For example, tomatoes grow better with shade than with direct sunlight. Sunflowers probably don’t need it, either. Other herbs may also benefit from being planted under a shaded tree, so be sure to plan your planting accordingly.
Herbs are beautiful, delightful plants that add color and flavor to any home. But they require a little extra help from us, like we get when we plant vegetables. Be sure to give herbs the sunlight they need to grow properly. In fact, if you do plan to plant herbs in the ground, do so early in the morning or late in the evening when the sun is at its strongest. And try not to over-water them, for it can cause wilting and eventually leaves that drop.
You can use herbs all year round, but direct sunlight will help them thrive best. If you are growing herbs indoors in a container, remember that many herbs do better if they are not planted in full sun. Just remember that some varieties of herbs do better if they are planted in full sun or partial shade, and other varieties prefer to be planted in shade or just below it. If you don’t have a garden but enjoy growing herbs, remember that they like well-drained soil with good drainage.
When it comes to choosing what kinds of herbs you will grow in your home, there are as many choices as there are people. For example, fennel, coriander, dill, and anise add flavor to dishes; marjoram, mint, and anise add fragrance to home-cooked meals. Keep this in mind, and think about how you might like to use those herbs. For example, fennel is used for cooking, but marjoram is great for flavoring desserts; and anise is great on just about everything, although it is more popular in the kitchen than in the herb room.
Now, the question of does herbs need direct sunlight is one that only you can answer. The information above is based on personal experience and on my own research, and is not intended to be used as professional medical advice. Before you begin to grow any kind of herb, you should check with a professional herbalist to make sure that you are getting the best herb for your growing area. Also, keep in mind that sunlight is not the only thing that is important when it comes to growing herbs. Your soil type, water availability, and the amount of fertilizer that you add to the soil are all equally important.