Learning how to do sun mapping will help you find out how sunlight and shadows affect each part of your property. Follow the simple steps in this exercise to determine the ideal location for your new garden.
Location, location, location. Gardens grown specifically for food production need at least 6 hours of sunlight each day. Since plants need light for photosynthesis, your vegetable garden’s location is vital to your success.
Remember, you don’t have to own a lot of land to plant a garden! Use this sun mapping exercise to observe the shadows on your patio, balcony, or from a southern facing window indoors.
How to Make a Sun Map
1. Sketch a Map of your Property from a Bird’s-eye View
Grab a piece of graph paper, a pencil, and some colored pencils (to give your drawing some flair, of course.) Sketch your map as close to scale as you can get it and be sure to include anything that might cast a shadow (buildings, trees, fences, etc.)
2. Observe Sunlight and Shadows on a Bright Spring Day
In the northern hemisphere, prepare to do sun mapping in the early spring to see where the shadows fall on your property. The ideal time for sun mapping would be June 21 (the summer solstice, when the sun is highest in the sky) but that is after the recommended planting time in many places.
On a sunny day in the early spring, sketch on your map the shadows as they move across your property. Step outside to do observe the changes at 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, and 6:00 PM.
3. Compare Sun Mapping Sketches
Compare the changes on your map throughout the day to determine which part of your property received 6+ hours of sunlight. That spot is the ideal placement for your garden!
Related Posts
- Get to Know the Soil in Your Garden
- Growing Zones and Average Frost Dates
- Vegetable Garden Design: How to Find Inspiration
Save This Post on Pinterest!
