Herbs, in general, prefer full sun. Their flavor will generally be stronger when grown in sun, but there are several culinary herbs that do just fine in partial shade.
Many herbs will not bloom when grown in shade, but that’s actually a bonus since the flavor often declines after flowering. Shade-grown herbs also tend to be become leggy, but keeping them trimmed will help them to become bushy.
Plant these 5 herbs in moist, well-drained soil rich in organic matter and they will thrive without full sun.
Herbs to Grow in Partial Shade
Chives – great in soup, salads, and as a garnish. What would a baked potato be without sour cream and chives?
Lemon Balm – this lemon-scented perennial herb is used in teas, salads, or is dried and used in sachets.
Mint – for 12 great ways to use mint, see this post.
Oregano – especially good in Italian or Greek dishes.
Parsley – besides being used as a garnish, parsley is wonderful in soups, stews, salads, and to flavor meat and fish.
Which herbs do you grow in partial shade?
Also be sure to see Healthy Green Savvy’s post, 40+ Vegetables that Grow in Shade.
Recommended Reading: The Complete Book of Herbs by Leslie Bremness
