21 Vegetables That Grow Well in Shade and Still Produce Plenty

Vegetables that grow well in shade can transform overlooked corners of your garden into thriving harvest spots. Not every crop needs full sun to flourish, and many actually prefer cooler, dimmer areas.

By choosing shade-tolerant vegetables, you can maximize your growing space and enjoy a more diverse harvest. These crops adapt well to partial light and reward you with fresh, nutrient-rich food without demanding constant attention.

They re also a smart choice if you live in hot climates where strong sun can stress plants. With regular watering and healthy soil, you ll be surprised how much food you can grow under the canopy of taller plants or along shaded fences.

Here are 21 of the best vegetables to grow in shade and tips to help you succeed.

#1 Peas

Peas thrive in partial shade, especially when planted under taller crops like corn or tomatoes. They benefit from cooler temperatures and still produce sweet pods in less direct light.

Sow seeds in early spring in well-draining soil. Keep them evenly watered, and provide a trellis for climbing varieties. With a little support, you ll enjoy a generous harvest even in shaded spots.

#2 Turnips

Turnips handle shade well and produce both edible roots and leafy greens. They grow quickly, often maturing in less than two months.

Plant them in loose soil and thin seedlings early for better root development. Water consistently to prevent woody or bitter roots. Growing them in cooler shaded areas improves their flavor.

#3 Leeks

Leeks are slow-growing vegetables that don t mind shade, making them a dependable choice for dim corners. Plant seedlings in trenches and gradually fill in soil around their stems to encourage long, white shanks.

Keep the soil moist for the best growth. They re hardy and can be harvested late into fall or even early spring.

#4 Arugula

Arugula grows quickly in partial shade, producing peppery leaves that are perfect for salads. Too much heat causes it to bolt, so shaded spots help extend its harvest season.

Sow seeds directly into the soil and keep the ground moist. Harvest leaves young for the best taste. Cut often, and it will keep producing fresh greens.

#5 Potatoes

Potatoes prefer cooler roots, so some shade actually benefits them. Plant tubers in loose, well-drained soil with at least a few hours of sun.

As plants grow, mound soil around stems to protect developing potatoes. Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Harvest once plants turn yellow and die back.

#6 Kale

Kale is one of the easiest vegetables to grow in shade. Cooler conditions improve its flavor, giving leaves a sweeter taste. Plant it in fertile, well-drained soil and water regularly.

You can harvest baby leaves early or wait for mature foliage. Kale keeps producing until frost, making it a year-round favorite.

#7 Broccoli

Broccoli handles partial shade well and produces firm heads in cooler conditions. Plant seedlings in rich soil with good drainage.

Keep the soil moist and weed-free for steady growth. Harvest the main head before flowers open, then enjoy smaller side shoots. Shaded areas also help reduce stress during hot summers.

#8 Lettuce

Lettuce thrives in shaded spots, where cooler temperatures prevent bolting. Sow seeds directly or transplant seedlings into well-drained soil.

Keep the soil moist to ensure tender leaves. Harvest outer leaves as needed or cut whole heads when mature. Growing lettuce in shade gives you crisp, sweet greens throughout the season.

#9 Cabbage

Cabbage grows well in partial shade, especially in warm regions. Plant seedlings 12 to 18 inches apart in nutrient-rich soil.

Water consistently to help heads form tightly. Keep an eye out for pests and protect with row covers if necessary. A little shade also helps cabbage resist splitting.

#10 Sorrel

Sorrel is a perennial green that thrives in shade. French and garden sorrel varieties both produce tangy, lemon-flavored leaves.

Plant it in fertile, moist soil and harvest leaves regularly to encourage new growth. It tolerates neglect and comes back year after year. Shade keeps leaves tender and flavorful.

#11 Carrots

Carrots tolerate partial shade but need loose soil to develop straight roots. Sow seeds directly in the garden and thin seedlings as they grow.

Keep soil evenly moist to prevent cracking. Harvest when roots are firm and brightly colored. Shade can help reduce bitterness and improve sweetness.

#12 Watercress

Watercress loves damp, shady environments and is packed with nutrients. Plant it near a water source or in consistently moist soil.

Harvest leaves often to encourage new growth. It produces a peppery flavor that enhances salads and soups. Shade helps it thrive even through warm seasons.

#13 Spinach

Spinach flourishes in cool, shady conditions. Sow seeds in rich, moist soil early in spring or late summer. Keep soil consistently damp for best growth.

Harvest leaves when young for tender flavor or wait for larger leaves. Shade protects spinach from bolting too quickly.

#14 Cauliflower

Cauliflower appreciates shade during hot weather, which helps prevent heads from turning brown. Plant seedlings in fertile, well-drained soil.

Water regularly to keep growth steady. When heads form, cover them with outer leaves to keep them white. Harvest once heads are firm and compact.

#15 Brussels Sprouts

Brussels sprouts thrive in cooler, shaded spots and can even be harvested in winter. Plant them in rows with enough space for tall stems.

Keep soil moist and add compost during the season. Harvest sprouts from the bottom up once they re firm and about an inch wide. Shade extends their growing season and improves flavor.

#16 Mustard Greens

Mustard greens grow quickly and adapt well to partial shade. Sow seeds directly in moist, fertile soil. Harvest young leaves for a milder flavor or wait for mature growth with a stronger bite.

They regrow after cutting, giving you multiple harvests. Shaded spots keep the greens tender and fresh longer.

#17 Celery

Celery prefers cooler, shady environments where it won t dry out too quickly. Plant it in rich, moisture-retentive soil and water often.

Mulch around plants to maintain even moisture. Harvest stalks when they re tall and crisp. With shade, celery grows more tender and flavorful.

#18 Radishes

Radishes are quick growers that do well in partial shade. Plant seeds directly in the soil and keep it evenly moist. Harvest within 3 to 5 weeks for small, crisp roots.

Shade helps prevent radishes from becoming woody or overly spicy. They re ideal for succession planting throughout the season.

#19 Garlic

Garlic tolerates partial shade but needs well-drained soil to develop bulbs. Plant cloves in the fall and keep the soil moist through spring. Mulch over winter to protect young shoots.

Harvest once the leaves turn yellow and dry. Shady conditions help prevent the soil from overheating during bulb formation.

#20 Swiss Chard

Swiss chard is a colorful, shade-loving green packed with vitamins. Plant it in fertile soil and water consistently for lush growth.

Harvest outer leaves regularly while allowing the center to keep producing. It adds color to garden beds and continues to thrive even with limited sunlight.

#21 Green Onions

Green onions grow quickly and adapt well to partial shade. Plant them in rows or containers with moist, well-drained soil.

Harvest leaves as they reach 6 to 8 inches tall. They regrow after cutting, giving you a steady supply. Shade helps keep their flavor mild and fresh.