Now That the Trees Are Leafing Out, It’s Time to Map the Sunlight in Your Yard
May brings a burst of life to your landscape—flowers bloom, the grass grows thick and green, and the trees finally leaf out. As the canopy fills in, it also changes the light patterns throughout your yard. That makes this the ideal time to observe how much sun your planting areas really get.
At Fran’s Flowers, we know that placing the right plant in the right spot can mean the difference between thriving and surviving. Sun mapping is a simple technique that can guide your plant choices all season long—especially now, as summer sun and shade patterns settle into place.
Why Map Sun Now?
With the trees now fully dressed in leaves, you’re seeing the real sun conditions your garden will experience through late spring, summer, and even early fall. A spot that looked sunny in April may now be shaded by midday. Mapping your yard’s sunlight now gives you the clearest picture of where to plant:
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Full-sun lovers like tomatoes, zinnias, or coneflowers
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Partial-sun plants like begonias, ferns, or astilbe
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Shade-tolerant varieties like hostas, impatiens, or coral bells
Simple Steps to Map the Sun
Here’s how to get started:
🌞 Step 1: Observe Throughout the Day
On a sunny day, check your garden in the morning, midday, and late afternoon. Note which areas are in full sun (6+ hours), part sun (3–6 hours), or shade (less than 3 hours). Watch for shifting shade from trees, fences, and buildings.
📓 Step 2: Keep a Light Log
Sketch a simple map of your yard and jot down how each area changes through the day. Even a smartphone photo at key times (e.g. 9 AM, noon, 3 PM) can help track patterns.
📍 Step 3: Mark Microclimates
Some areas may be warmer or cooler due to stone walls, patios, or wind protection. These microclimates can impact what thrives there—especially for tender annuals or early veggies.
Let Your Plants Shine
Once you know your light levels, you can shop with confidence—choosing plants that will naturally flourish in the spots you’ve selected. If you’re unsure, bring your sun map to Fran’s Flowers—we’ll help match the perfect plants to your yard’s unique conditions.
This May, let your trees guide you—as their leaves settle in, so do your sun patterns. A little observation now leads to a season full of color, growth, and success!