26 Vegetables To Grow In The Shade

Growing vegetables in the shade can be a bit challenging because most vegetables prefer full sun. However, there are some vegetables that can tolerate partial shade or dappled sunlight. Here are 26 vegetables you can consider growing in the shade:

1. Lettuce: Lettuce is a leafy green that can thrive in partial shade.
2. Spinach: Spinach is another leafy green that does well in partial shade.
3. Kale: Kale can tolerate some shade and is a nutritious option.
4. Arugula: Arugula is a peppery salad green that can grow in the shade.
5. Chard: Swiss chard can tolerate partial shade and adds color to your garden.
6. Collard Greens: Collards are a hardy green that can grow in less sunlight.
7. Mustard Greens: Mustard greens can handle some shade and have a spicy flavor.
8. Cilantro: Cilantro can grow in partial shade and is a popular herb.
9. Parsley: Parsley is a versatile herb that can thrive in shady areas.
10. Mint: Mint can grow in partial shade and is great for tea and cocktails.
11. Chives: Chives are a low-maintenance herb that does well in shade.
12. Oregano: Oregano is a flavorful herb that can tolerate less sunlight.
13. Lemon Balm: Lemon balm is an aromatic herb that can grow in partial shade.
14. Sorrel: Sorrel is a tangy leafy green that can handle shade.
15. Bok Choy: Bok choy can grow in partial shade and is great for stir-fries.
16. Endive: Endive is a bitter green that can tolerate some shade.
17. Radishes: Radishes can grow in partial shade, but they may take longer to mature.
18. Beets: Beets can tolerate light shade and provide both greens and roots.
19. Scallions: Scallions, or green onions, can grow in partial shade.
20. Cress: Watercress and garden cress can thrive in shady, moist areas.
21. Celery: Celery prefers cooler temperatures and can handle partial shade.
22. Asian Greens: Various Asian greens like mizuna, tatsoi, and komatsuna can grow in partial shade.
23. Rhubarb: Rhubarb can tolerate some shade and is used in desserts and jams.
24. Cauliflower: While cauliflower prefers full sun, it can still grow in partial shade.
25. Broccoli: Broccoli can tolerate some shade, but it may take longer to mature.
26. Peas: Peas can handle light shade, especially during the hot summer months.

Keep in mind that while these vegetables can tolerate shade, they may still perform better in areas with more sunlight. If you have a shadier garden, consider selecting varieties that are specifically bred for lower light conditions and provide them with the best possible light exposure within your garden.