North Short Plant Club Mar 20, 2026

Why Do "Part Sun" & "Part Shade" Plants Both Need 3-6 Hours of Sunlight?

Why do “part sun” and “part shade” both need 3–6 hours of sunlight?


This can be confusing when reading plant care tags. Although the number of sunlight hours is the same, the difference comes down to the intensity and timing of that light. Knowing where to plant for best success is an important part of plant selection. 

  • Part sun plants are generally more tolerant of direct sun, including some afternoon exposure.
  • Part shade plants prefer gentler conditions and benefit from protection during the hottest part of the day. 
  • Some plants can adapt to either environment when labeled as "Part sun to part shade" 


Quick tip

If you are unsure which category your space falls into, observe what time it receives direct sunlight throughout the day. Morning sun is typically softer and suitable for “part shade” plants, while afternoon sun is stronger and more suitable for “part sun” plants. 

Tags: Partial Shade , Partial Sun
Topics: Annuals , Perennials

© North Shore Plant Club 2026. Privacy Policy, Terms & Conditions.

Limited Availability

We try very hard to source exactly what you’d like, but sometimes growers run out of plants! While this variety is a great deal at the price shown, we know that it has limited availability. If you want the plant even if it might be more expensive, or in a different size or quantity -- after you place your order, just send us a quick note at help@northshoreplantclub.com. Then, we’ll try to get you some version of this from one of our growers. And if we can’t get it from anywhere, of course, we’ll send a refund!


Field-Grown vs. Greenhouse-Grown Plants

Plants which are well-adapted to our local climate are most often field-grown (outside). Field-grown plants are generally cheaper and have the advantage of already somewhat acclimated to our cold winters, but that means they’re not artificially far along in the spring and tend to bloom at the normal time in our area.

Spring annuals and tender perennials are typically grown in Greenhouses so they can be ready and luxurious exactly when customers want them. Some perennials are also “forced” into early bloom in greenhouses. In May, there can be a very big difference between field-grown and greenhouse-grown plants of the same type. The latter typically look good right away (so they’re a great choice where that’s important), but we typically pay a premium for it.


Estimated Recipe Cost

The cost of this recipe's ingredients will vary depending on the season and the sizes and varieties you select.


Benefits of Membership

Want a better way to get great plants and make your yard look awesome? Create your account below and get:

  • The best plants… from the same sources the pros use, but at near wholesale prices
  • More plants in more sizes than anywhere else… whether you’re looking for classics or rarities; annuals, perennials or shrubs; one plant or a whole yardful!
  • "No Contact" delivery or easy pick-up at a site near you without fighting the retail crowds. You choose!

Membership is free, but — since we rely on delivery and local pick-up — you have to live near one of our hubs (or be willing to drive to a site to pick them up). If you live farther away, and would like to help us bring the club to your neighbors, please email helpusgrow@northshoreplantclub.com.

Already a member?
Login