Exposure to the sun

A plant or tree that needs sun exposure must receive at least six hours of natural light during the hottest hours of the day (between noon and 6 p.m.).

Outdoors, a sunny spot is south-facing. Sunlight is not diminished by shadows cast by trees or buildings.

Indoors, a plant is in the sun when placed just behind a south-facing window or bay window. But the sun's rays can burn foliage! Place a curtain over your window to protect your specimens.

Mid-shade is a popular location for indoor plants. Calatheas, anthurium andreanum, pothos and haworthiopsis fasciata thrive here. Lemon tree and japanese Maple appreciate partial shade and exposure to the cooler hours of the day.