Introduction

Planting annuals under trees can not only improve the aesthetics of your backyard but also provide additional benefits such as prevention of soil erosion and weed control. However, not all plants are capable of thriving under the unique combination of sunlight, shade, and soil moisture that trees provide. In this article, we will explore the best annual plants to plant under trees.

Factors to Consider

When selecting annual plants to plant under trees, it is essential to consider several factors, including:

Light: Most trees provide dappled light, which is not very intense. Therefore, plants that can tolerate low to moderate light conditions should be chosen.

Soil: Tree roots can compete with annuals for nutrients and water, making it important to select plants that can thrive in these conditions.

Growth rate: Fast-growing plants can compete with tree roots and lower the tree's water and nutrient uptake, resulting in stress to both the plants and the tree.

Best Annual Plants to Plant Under Trees

Begonias

Begonias are one of the best annual plants to grow under trees. They thrive in low light and can tolerate the competition from tree roots. Begonias come in several varieties, ranging from large-leaved to small-leaved, and produce bright flowers in shades of pink, red, orange, and white. Additionally, they are excellent at suppressing weeds.

Impatiens

Impatiens are another great choice for planting under trees due to their ability to tolerate low light levels. They are ideal for shady gardens and come in several colors, including pink, red, purple, and white. Impatiens also require minimal maintenance, making them a popular choice for busy gardeners.

Violas

Violas are ideal for planting under trees due to their ability to thrive in partial to full shade. They come in several colors, including purple, blue, yellow, and white, and are excellent at suppressing weeds. Moreover, they bloom profusely throughout the growing season.

Salvia

Salvia is an annual herb that can tolerate partial shade and is ideal for planting under trees. They produce tall spikes of deep blue or purple flowers that add a pop of color to your garden. Additionally, they are easy to grow and require minimal maintenance, making them a popular choice for busy gardeners.

Pansies

Pansies are a popular choice for planting under trees due to their ability to thrive in partial shade. They come in several colors, including purple, blue, yellow, and white, and can add a pop of color to your garden. Pansies are also excellent at suppressing weeds and require minimal maintenance.

Conclusion

Planting the right annuals under trees can enhance the beauty of your garden while providing additional benefits such as preventing soil erosion and weed control. The plants mentioned in this article are the best annuals to plant under trees, as they can tolerate low light levels, competition from tree roots, and require minimal maintenance. Next time you plan on planting annuals under trees, consider choosing one of the plants mentioned in this article.