What can you grow with little sun?
Mushrooms grow away from sunlight, per UW–Madison Extension (UW–Madison). Herbs and greens grow under a grow light or in a garden with one built in. University of Minnesota Extension says low light can't start seeds, and tomatoes and peppers want extra light even in a bright spot (UMN Extension).
North-facing windows, a light well, or a kitchen far from the glass: many city homes don't get much sun, especially in winter. You can still grow some food. You choose what grows without sun, or you bring the light.
What grows with little or no daylight
- Mushrooms. University of Wisconsin–Madison Extension's guide to growing oyster mushrooms says to keep them at about room temperature and away from sunlight, and suggests a dark room in winter. It also says to mist them at least twice a day as they grow (UW–Madison Extension). Follow your kit's own instructions too.
- Anything under a grow light. A countertop garden with a built-in light, or a strip light under a cabinet, can grow herbs and greens without a window.
- Sprouts. They grow in a jar on the counter. Read our sprouts and microgreens food-safety guide first.
What needs real light
University of Minnesota Extension says low light (50 to 250 foot-candles) isn't enough to start seeds. It lists culinary herbs such as basil and thyme with the high-light plants, and says tomatoes and peppers may get leggy without extra light even in a bright spot (UMN Extension). In a dim apartment, plan on a grow light for herbs and greens, and a strong one for tomatoes.
Find what fits
The apartment fit check asks how much daylight your spot gets and shows what works there. Or browse indoor gardens that need no daylight and mushroom kits.