Wondering if your urban planter boxes are sunny enough? Here's a simple guide. First, know your plants' needs. Check their tags for "full sun" (6+ hours), "partial sun/part shade" (3-6 hours), or "full shade" (less than 3 hours). Next, conduct a sunlight audit. On a clear day, observe your planter's location every hour. Note when direct sun hits it and when it's in shade from buildings or fences. Do this for all seasons, as the sun's angle changes.
Watch your plants for clues. Signs of insufficient sun include leggy, stretched growth, small leaves, leaning toward the light, and poor flowering or fruiting. Signs of too much sun are scorched, bleached, or crispy leaves and soil that dries out extremely fast.
Maximize light by using reflective surfaces nearby or moving planters on casters. If sunlight is limited, choose shade-tolerant herbs like mint, or leafy greens like lettuce and spinach. Regularly rotating your boxes can also ensure all sides get even light, leading to healthier, happier plants in your city oasis.