Texas FFA Nursery Landscape Practice Exam

Which plant is NOT typically shade-tolerant?

1. Impatiens

2. Marigold

3. Ferns

4. Hostas

The correct answer is: Marigold

Marigolds are not typically shade-tolerant plants. They thrive best in full sun, requiring at least six hours of direct sunlight for optimal growth and flowering. This preference for sunny conditions is due to their natural habitat and growth characteristics, which lead them to develop more robust blooms and healthier foliage when exposed to adequate light. On the other hand, plants like Impatiens, ferns, and Hostas are well-known for their ability to flourish in low-light environments. For instance, Impatiens are popular in shaded garden areas due to their colorful flowers and adaptability to less light. Ferns often grow in forested or shaded areas where sunlight is limited, and Hostas are frequently found in shade gardens, thriving in conditions where many other plants would struggle. This contrast highlights the specific light preferences of these plants, demonstrating why Marigolds stand out as the choice that is not shade-tolerant.