These descriptions are confusing, but if it lists full sun, the plant will probably flower and fruit best in full sun, not as well in partial shade. Which plants are you trying to grow?

There are accepted definitions for those terms. 'Full sun' is considered to be 6-8 hours of uninterrupted sunlight; 'partial sun' and 'partial shade' can be used interchangeably and are considered to be less than 6 hours of sun but more than 3 hours. 'Full shade' is less than 3 hours of direct sunlight and 'heavy shade' is no direct sunlight.

Plants that are listed for full sun to partial shade (or partial sun) can be planted anywhere where they receive at least 3 hours of direct sunlight. I generally shoot for a median range of 4-5 hours. And I live in an pretty northerly location where sunlight - even in summer - is not very intense. If a plant wants/needs full sun to thrive and flower and fruit, the label will just list 'full sun', period.

The issue can be complicated by the timing of the sunlight. There are a number of plants that will list light requirements as 'part shade' but it is critical when that shade occurs during the course of the day, Usually, this will be sun in the morning and then shade during the afternoon or the hottest part of the day.

Labels are written to help inform buyers, but they are also written to sell the maximum number of plants. They often list the widest possible range of conditions in which the plant will grow, but not necessarily thrive or give of its best.

Thanks Calilrhoe and gardengal. I have growing right now, yarrow, mint, johnny jump up. lupines, snap dragons, foxglove, Delphinium, hollyhocks, canterbury bells, black eye susan and a few others. I also have belladonna, mugwort, primrose, lily of the valley on their way to me. Almost all of these are seeds. I like growing from seed because it gives me a sense of accomplishment and it's always great to see seeds turn into big plants. I now have a better understanding of where to put everything in the ground thanks to you two :)

You sound like a devoted gardener!

Actually, this is only my second year of growing plants lol. But it's something I really enjoy doing after being inside all winter. It's always nice to get back in touch with nature :)