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Sun

When it comes to growing plants, sunlight plays a crucial role in several key factors. Here is a breakdown of the main ones:

Quantity (Intensity):

  • Amount of light: Plants require a specific amount of daily sunlight for optimal growth, depending on the species. This can range from full sun (8+ hours) to partial shade (4-6 hours), to full shade (less than 4 hours).
  • Seasonal variations: The amount of sunlight naturally fluctuates throughout the year. In summer, longer days provide more light, while winter days are shorter. Consider seasonal light changes when choosing plants and planning your garden layout.
  • Manipulation: You can manipulate light quantity for specific goals. Use reflective materials or grow lights to increase light, or shade cloths to decrease it.

Quality (Wavelength):

  • Color spectrum: Sunlight comprises a range of colors (wavelengths). Plants primarily absorb blue and red light for photosynthesis, while reflecting green, which is why they appear green.
  • Specific effects: Blue light influences vegetative growth (leaves, stems), while red light, especially in combination with blue, promotes flowering and fruiting. Understanding these effects can help you choose the right light types for specific plant needs.

Other factors to consider:

  • Daylight duration: Aside from total light hours, the distribution of light throughout the day can matter. Some plants prefer consistent light, while others benefit from morning or afternoon sun exposure.
  • Light intensity: Too much intense light can stress and damage plants, especially in hot climates. Consider providing afternoon shade or choosing heat-tolerant varieties.
  • Acclimatization: Gradually introduce seedlings to outdoor light to avoid scorching.

By understanding these sunlight factors, you can create an environment that optimizes growth and health for your chosen plants. Remember, research the specific needs of your plant varieties for the best results starting with the following sunny varieties:

  • Delosperma cooperi 3.5 inch pot Delosperma cooperi 3.5 inch pot

    Delosperma cooperi (3.5 inch pot)

    Delosperma cooperi ((3.5-inch pot)s)Common Name: Hardy Ice Plant Delosperma cooperi, also known as the trailing ice plant, hardy ice plant, or pink carpet, is a succulent plant native to South Africa. It is a mat-forming plant that typically grows to 3-6...

    $4.60
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  • Delosperma cooperi Delosperma cooperi

    Delosperma cooperi (4) 1-gallons

    Delosperma cooperi (4) 1-gallons Common Name: Trailing ice plant, hardy ice plant Zones: 6 to 9; Full sun and well-drained soil. Mature height 3 inches, plant 9 to 12 inches apart. Succulent semi-evergreen, with cylindrical needle-like leaves;...

    $115.68
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  • Delosperma RED MOUNTAIN Flame 30ct Flat

    Delosperma RED MOUNTAIN Flame (30)ct Flat

    Delosperma RED MOUNTAIN® Flame (30)ct FlatCommon Name: Hardy Ice Plant An outstanding Hardy Ice Plant that excelled in our trials because of its large flower size and incredible flower coverage. Large 2', deep orange red flowers with a narrow pink...

    $183.26
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  • Delphinium Blue Buccaneers 30ct Flat Delphinium Blue Buccaneers 30ct Flat

    Delphinium 'Blue Buccaneers' (30)ct Flat

    Delphinium 'Blue Buccaneers' (30)ct FlatNew Zealand DelphiniumsCommon Name: Hybrid Bee Delphinium Dark electric blue flowers hold black bees on strong flower spires. Since it is from seed, some lighter blues may appear. Compared to 'Cobalt Dreams', 'Blue...

    $198.85
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  • Delphinium Cobalt Dreams 
Photos courtesy of Walters Gardens, Inc Delphinium Cobalt Dreams 
Photos courtesy of Walters Gardens, Inc

    Delphinium 'Cobalt Dreams' (30)ct Flat

    Delphinium 'Cobalt Dreams' (30)ct FlatNew Zealand DelphiniumsCommon Name: Hybrid Bee Delphinium This new selection produces strong, tall spires tightly packed with cobalt blue florets with brightly contrasting white central bees. They draw your attention...

    $198.85
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  • Delphinium elatum Blue Lace
Photos courtesy of Walters Gardens, Inc Delphinium elatum Blue Lace
Photos courtesy of Walters Gardens, Inc

    Delphinium elatum 'Blue Lace' (30)ct Flats

    Delphinium elatum 'Blue Lace' Series Name: New Millennium Hybrids. Densely packed spires of true sky-blue flowers with a touch of lavender pink on very strong stems in early summer. Removing spent flower spikes will result in another round of blooms on...

    $198.85
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  • Dianthus Cherry Vanilla PPAF 30ct Flat Dianthus Cherry Vanilla PPAF 30ct Flat

    Dianthus 'Cherry Vanilla' PP29684 (30)ct Flat

    Dianthus 'Cherry Vanilla' PP29684 CPBR6728 (30)ct FlatFRUIT PUNCH® SeriesCommon Name: Pinks There are only a few plants that can stop you in your tracks as you walk by, and this sparkling new Dianthus in the FRUIT PUNCH® series is one of them...

    $224.84
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  • Dianthus Classic Coral PPAF 30ct Flat Dianthus Classic Coral PPAF 30ct Flat

    Dianthus 'Classic Coral' PP30048 (30)ct Flat

    Dianthus 'Classic Coral' PP30048 CPBR6729 (30)ct FlatFRUIT PUNCH® SeriesCommon Name: Pinks Classic Coral' is the long-awaited missing color of the FRUIT PUNCH® series. In early summer a splash of double, striking coral pink flowers is produced...

    $224.84
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