If you tend to your lawn and flowerbeds regularly, then you know how vital proper sun exposure is to the health of your greenery and blossoms. “Proper” is the keyword, as too much sunshine can also be detrimental to your plants. For effective landscape maintenance, here’s what you need to know.

Why Plants Require Sunlight

Plants feed themselves through photosynthesis, which requires carbon dioxide, water, and light energy. That energy breaks down the molecules from the other two components and converts them into glucose. As the sugar breaks down, it provides energy to help the plant grow.

Even with enough carbon dioxide and air, photosynthesis will be disrupted if there’s not enough light.

When Too Much Causes Damage

Although sunlight is necessary for proper landscape maintenance, too much can be harmful to some plants. That’s why some require full exposure, while others thrive in shade.

Too much heat, especially during peak hours in the middle of the day, can cause leaf discoloration or even scorching. Protecting plants with an umbrella is one way to regulate exposure.

How Much Sun Your Plants Need

Different plants have specific landscape maintenance requirements. Some may require full sun or partial sun, and others might need partial shade or full shade.

For plants that need constant sunshine, aim for at least six or more hours of complete exposure every day.

Partial sun plants should be situated in areas that are sunny for least half the day.

Plants that require only partial shade don’t need more than five or so hours of exposure, while full shade plants shouldn’t receive more than an hour.

Best Ways to Optimize Sun Exposure

Select the right spot for your plants, so they receive the sun exposure they require. You’ll need to assess the amount of sunlight the different areas of your yard receives each day. Take into account anything that may block visibility, like neighboring buildings or utility structures.

When selecting the right spot, make sure there’s enough space to accommodate the plant when it grows to full size.

If you need help with landscape maintenance, consult Hui Ku Maoli Ola Native Hawaiian Plant Specialists. Serving the Kaneohe community since 1999, the nursery supplies stunning native Hawaiian plants to both homeowners and commercial businesses. They also offer a variety of beneficial landscape maintenance services, including xeriscaping, erosion control, and tree trimming. Visit them online or call (808) 235-6165 for service details.