Sun Exposure

The relationship of the sun to the garden beds is important to consider when designing the garden.

For rectangular beds the long dimension should run east to west. Determine if nearby buildings or trees will shade the plots, especially in winter when the sun’s arc is low in the sky.

Sun loving plants may have to be dropped from the planting list in autumn and winter in favor of those that will grow in shady conditions. Grow sun-loving plants in full sun in spring and summer when the sun’s arc is high. Painting nearby walls white can also increase the effects of the sun.