Outdoor & Protected Cultivation
Outdoor Site Selection & Sun Mapping
Evaluate direct sun, seasonal shade, drainage, wind exposure, access, and local microclimates before placing plants.
Key concepts
- Solar exposure changes through the season
- Nearby trees, buildings, fences, and terrain can create moving shade
- Slope and low spots affect drainage, frost exposure, and cold-air pooling
- Convenient access matters for irrigation, inspection, and storm response
What to measure or observe
- Map direct-sun hours at several dates or use a solar-path tool
- Inspect the site after heavy rain
- Record prevailing winds and strong gust corridors
- Identify reflective surfaces and heat-trapping areas
Common mistakes
- Choosing a site from one midday observation
- Ignoring late-season shade
- Assuming a sunny site automatically has good drainage
- Placing plants where routine inspection is difficult
Visuals this lesson still needs
- Seasonal sun-path overlay
- Site-selection checklist
- Slope and drainage diagram
- Microclimate comparison map