Plants in urban planter boxes need the right amount of sunlight to thrive, but the perfect amount isn't the same for every plant. Most flowering plants and vegetables, like tomatoes and peppers, are "full sun" lovers. They typically require a minimum of 6 to 8 hours of direct, unfiltered sunlight daily to produce abundant blooms and fruit. Herbs such as basil, rosemary, and thyme also fall into this category, needing plenty of sun to develop their robust flavors.
For balconies or spaces with less light, "partial sun" or "partial shade" plants are ideal. These include leafy greens like lettuce and spinach, and herbs like parsley and mint, which do well with about 4 to 6 hours of morning sunlight. Some plants, like certain ferns and begonias, are suited for "full shade" and can manage with less than 4 hours of direct sun, thriving in bright, indirect light.
The key is to observe your specific urban environment. Buildings and structures can create shade, so monitor how sunlight moves across your space throughout the day. Matching your plant choices to the actual light conditions of your planter box location is the most crucial step for a thriving urban garden. Always check the plant tag or description for its specific light requirements before you plant.