What can I Plant under Pine Trees in Minnesota?

Pine trees are a common sight in Minnesota. These evergreens are not only beautiful but also provide a host of environmental benefits, such as cleaner air, reduced noise pollution, and habitat for wildlife. However, it can be challenging to grow plants under pine trees due to shade, acidic soil, and the presence of pine needles. In this article, we will share some ideas for plants that thrive under pine trees in Minnesota.

Groundcovers

Groundcovers are a great option for planting under pine trees as they are low-growing, shade-tolerant, and require little maintenance. Some popular groundcovers that work well under pine trees in Minnesota include:

Creeping phlox: This plant produces a dense mat of flowers in early spring, making it an attractive groundcover for under pine trees.

Periwinkle: Also known as vinca, periwinkle is a trailing plant with glossy green leaves and blue flowers that bloom in spring and summer.

Bearberry: This hardy groundcover features small, leathery leaves and bright red berries that persist throughout the winter.

Shade-Tolerant Flowers

Some flowers can tolerate the shade and acidity found under pine trees. Here are a few options:

Bleeding heart: A spring-blooming perennial with heart-shaped pink or white flowers that dangle from arching stems.

Astilbe: Another shade-loving perennial that produces feathery plumes of pink, red, or white flowers in early summer.

Toad lily: A unique plant with orchid-like flowers that bloom in late summer or early fall.

Native Plants

Native plants are often a smart choice as they are adapted to the growing conditions in Minnesota. Some native plants that do well under pine trees include:

Wild ginger: A native groundcover with heart-shaped leaves and small flowers that grow close to the ground.

Wood anemone: An early-blooming perennial with delicate white flowers that brighten up the forest floor in spring.

Jack-in-the-pulpit: A striking plant with a hooded flower that resembles a pulpit and produces bright red berries in the fall.

Conclusion

Planting under pine trees in Minnesota requires careful consideration of the growing conditions. However, with the right plants, you can enhance the beauty of the area while providing additional ecological benefits. Groundcovers, shade-tolerant flowers, and native plants are all good options for planting under pine trees. Experiment with different types of plants to find the best fit for your site!