Living in an apartment with only morning sun doesn't mean you have to give up on your dream of a lush, green oasis. The key to successful urban gardening in these conditions is strategic placement and plant selection. The absolute best location for your planter boxes is directly in front of east or southeast-facing windows. This spot captures the most intense, direct sunlight of the day, which is gentler than the harsh afternoon rays, making it ideal for a wide variety of plants. A sunny windowsill in the kitchen or living room is a perfect candidate.
If your windowsills are narrow, don't despair. Consider using hanging planters just inside the window or installing a shallow shelving unit against the window wall to create a tiered garden that maximizes light exposure. For those with a small balcony or patio that receives morning light, this is a prime real estate for your larger planter boxes. Just ensure they are positioned to avoid being shaded by railings or walls.
The next critical step is choosing the right plants. Herbs like parsley, cilantro, and mint will flourish. For a pop of color, opt for flowers such as impatiens, begonias, or geraniums. Many leafy greens, including lettuce, spinach, and kale, also perform exceptionally well with a few hours of direct morning sun. Remember to rotate your planters every week or so to ensure all sides of the plants receive equal light, promoting even and healthy growth. With this smart approach, your morning-sun apartment can become a thriving urban garden.