Most plants, especially herbs and vegetables, require a fair amount of sun in order to thrive. Five hours of sun is considered the minimum for most of edible. Fortunately, though, there are several herbs that do fairly well in shady conditions—where the plants receive at least a few hours of shade each day. Deep shade will cause most herbs to sprawl a little and grow leggy as they reach out for sunlight, but many will grow admirably in dappled shade or in a spot that gets a short stretch of direct sun each day.
The following herbs can be successfully grown in shady areas of your garden.
Mint
Use mint for tea, or add it to salads and other dishes – there are lots of delicious varieties to try. This herb enjoys shade, but its flavour may be less intense than in sun. Buy in small pots to plant out in spring/summer.
Dill
With delicate leaves that have a light, unique flavour, dill works well in salads. It’s also a good substitute for parsley and tarragon in sauces. Sow direct in spring for summer harvests.
Parsley
Both the flat-leaved and curly types of parsley benefit from being grown in partial shade. Sow seeds in spring or autumn, and take care to protect young plants from frost. You can use the leaves and stems in soups, stews, sauces and salads.
Chives
Decorative and delicious, chive leaves and flowers have a mild onion flavour. A fresh bunch of chives is perfect for lots of dishes, from herb butters to filled baked potatoes.
Calendula pot marigold
Calendula not only has multiple medicinal uses, but it also produces colorful blooms. It stimulates the immune system. Calendula draws aphids away from valuable plants. Calendulas are adaptable and don’t require much maintenance. You can grow them in containers or beds in full sun to shade conditions. They prefer cool temperatures and their flowers last longer in filtered sun or shady areas.
Catnip
Catnip is often grown for its beautiful ornamental properties. Catnip grows well in almost any soil, but does best in a moderately rich loam that is well-draining. It will grow acceptably in either sun or shade.
Oregano
Oregano is an easy-to-grow perennial, and it is a very popular herb that finds a home in numerous Italian, Mexican, and Spanish dishes. Oregano does best in partial shade.
Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is thought by herbalists to help fight many woes, such as anxiety and stress. Other medicinal uses include a digestive aid if made into a tea. It can control bloating and vomiting. The calming tea relieves a headache and restlessness too. It should be grown in rich, moist soil. Lemon balm loves sun and warmth, but it can thrive in partial shade as well.
