Module 6 is dedicated to the effects of the sun and how you as a producer map out your vaults. This is a perfect example of different types of sun exposure that determines which vegetables thrive and which ones bolt, burn, or struggle! - Full sun beds with 8+ hours of direct light are perfect for tomatoes, peppers, and squash-they turn all that energy into delicious fruit! - Partial sun with 5-7 hours are great for root crops like carrots, beets, and turnips that focus their energy underground. - Partial shade areas with 3-5 hours work well for leafy greens like lettuce, spinach, and arugula that can bolt in too much heat. - Dappled shade under trees with 2-3 filtered hours can still nurture shade-tolerant herbs like mint, parsley, and chives without them becoming leggy. Remember, sunlight is the key factor that decides whether your plants struggle or thrive!

I have a confession to make. We all have that one plant that humbles us, and for me, it’s Bupleurum. Honestly, Bupleurum is notorious! It’s the "Student" that refuses to graduate no matter what I do. Even seasoned flower farmers treat it like a temperamental houseguest that won't leave, but also won't help with the dishes. Since we talk a lot in this group about the "Sprinters, Students, and Marathoners" concept, I’ve officially labeled Bupleurum the ultimate "Special Needs Student." It has such a specific set of biological triggers that if you miss even one, you’re left with a tray of dirt and zero germination. I’ve tried the deep freeze, the total darkness, direct fall planting and the cool soil tricks... and yet, my graveyard is full of them. Now I want to hear from you: 1. Who is the "Special Needs Student" in your garden? That one plant that requires a 5-page manual just to get it to sprout? 2. Or, has anyone here actually conquered Bupleurum? If you’ve managed to get this one to graduate, please drop your "Soil Fixer" secrets below and save me from my own frustration! Let’s troubleshoot our most stubborn plants together. 👇

This would be a nice spring project. All of these plants are easy to grow and need similar growing conditions.

Rachel @rachel-cassant-1958 this made me think of you when I read your bio. Welcome to our group!

Here is a little for the landscapers in here. I know many worry that they my not be able to grow in the shade but that is simply not true. As you can see from the diagram and my personal garden, many plants thrive in the shade. This sets your shade garden apart from the rest of your gardens with its unique look. A few plants to use: Hellebore 4-9, Astilbe 4-9, Bleeding Heart 3-9, Lungwort 3-8, Hosta 3-9, Ferns 3-11, Columbine 3-9, Primrose 4-8, Anemone 4-8