How Close to Plant Evergreen Ground Cover to Tree

Planting evergreen ground cover beneath a tree can take your landscaping design to another level. Not only does it provide a beautiful contrast to the tree trunk, but it also helps to suppress weeds and conserve water. However, planting too close to the tree can cause damage and growth problems for both the tree and the ground cover. In this article, we will guide you on the optimum distance to plant evergreen ground cover to the tree.

Why Distance Matters

It is important to consider the tree-root competition for water, sunlight, and nutrients while planting the ground cover. When you install a new plant directly next to the tree, it will need to compete with the tree roots for nutrients and water. This can lead to one or both plants suffering and may even kill newly planted vegetation.

Another factor in keeping an appropriate distance is preventing the ground cover from developing a shallow root system. When the root system is shallow, it can make the plant less drought-tolerant as the roots are unable to reach deeper water reserves. Therefore, planting too close to the tree can cause the ground cover to grow shallower roots or die when the roots reach the topsoil layer where the tree roots are.

The Optimum Distance

The optimal distance to plant evergreen ground cover is at least one and a half times the height of the tree trunk away from the trunk. For example, if a tree's trunk height is 20 feet, the recommended distance for planting the ground cover would be 30 feet from the base of the trunk. This distance provides enough space for roots of the two plants to grow without competition for soil nutrients, air, or water. Additionally, allowing this space between the tree and the plants will prevent any physical damage to the tree trunk during planting and growth.

It is important to note that the distance will vary depending on the growth rate and spread of the tree canopy. Trees with a large canopy should have a wider distance to ensure the ground cover receives enough sunshine to grow. Trees that establish deeper roots should have closer planting distances as their roots will not compete with the ground cover. Overall, it is best to consult with a landscaping professional or extension service to determine the appropriate planting distance of evergreen ground cover when planting beneath a tree.

Best Evergreen Ground Cover for Planting Beneath a Tree

When selecting evergreen ground cover to plant beneath a tree, it is important to consider the soil type, exposure to the sun, and root competition. Here are some popular evergreen ground cover options for planting beneath a tree:

Ajuga

Creeper

Dwarf Mondo Grass

Carpet Bugleweed

English Ivy

Japanese Pachysandra

Periwinkle

These evergreen ground cover options have root systems that work with many tree root systems without causing competition or damage. They prefer shade and can grow in most soil types, making them perfect for planting under a tree. Additionally, they do not need pruning, making them low maintenance options for ground cover.

Conclusion

The ideal distance to plant evergreen ground cover beneath a tree is at least one and a half times the height of the tree trunk away from the trunk. This distance reduces root competition and physical damage to the tree while ensuring the ground cover gets enough air, sunlight, and water to thrive. When selecting evergreen ground cover options, it is best to go for those that thrive in shade, have shallow roots, and grow in most soil types. With these tips, you can successfully transform your tree into a beautiful and functional green space!