I've planted a few dozen conifers in what most would consider 'filtered sun' - not quite full shade, but in situations where direct sunlight is scarse if ever. So far so good here anyway.

Planted in 'Full shade' I suspect some dwarf/mini conifers might show dull colors, irregular growth, slow growth or un-even growth. I don't know though for sure. It's also possible entire parts of the plant would die out, the plants natural reaction to a lack of light.

There are many kinds of 'shade' also, so you'll have to be more specific.

-Will

full sun is best for full vigor ...

reduced sun reduces vigor ...

simple???

if a given plant is supposed to grow 6 inches per year in full sun ... perhaps it will grow 3 inches heavy shade ... and perhaps not fill out as thickly ....

but it rarely will kill a plant.. presuming we arent talking about a dark grotto ...

if the plant can process enough sunshine to create the chlorophyll the plant needs.. it will survive... and no fertilizer will change the amount of sunlight a plant needs ... its not one or the other..

but it will be an issue if it will be pleasing enough to look at .. compared to others ..

good luck

ken