“Plant the right plant in the right place” is one of the mantras of garden design. One of the factors that we use in deciding where to place a plant is how much sun a particular spot can provide. However, there are many other factors, such as leaf cover, buildings, season of the year, and time of day, that can influence the amount of sun in a particular location.

A simple, handy tool can help you determine the amount of sunlight in any location in your yard. The Sunlight Calculator meter measures the duration and intensity of sunlight falling in a location over a 12-hour period. The results are indicated as full sun, partial sun, partial shade, or full shade. This battery-powered, water-resistant meter is attached to a 7-1/2-inch-long stake that you stick in the ground.

For more information about the Sunlight Calculator, go to: Lee Valley.