While some plants will have more specific needs, most of the plants we sell can handle 5 to 7 hours of morning sun. Yellow and white variegated plants will need enough sun to maintain their coloring, while needing some shade to prevent sun scorch. When you read a book it says to plant in full sun, consider where the plant is native to... New York, Michigan, Washington state, or here in Georgia. Six to eight hours of Georgia sun is comparable to 14 hours of full sun in our northern states. Our more intense sun makes it smarter to put conifers and Japanese maples in afternoon shade. Morning sun, afternoon shade works well for most genera and species, but three hours of hot afternoon sun and morning shade will as well. In fact, many conifers can handle a full 14 hours of Georgia sun if the drainage and moisture levels are ideal. Feel free to ask your nurseryman about ther experience on the various cultivars.
Sunlight needs for Conifers and Japanese Maples
