What to Plant Under a Shady Tree

Planting under a shady tree can be challenging, but not impossible. It's important to choose the right plants that can tolerate less sunlight and root competition from the tree. Here are some suggestions for plants to consider:

Perennials

Perennial plants can provide year-round interest and often come back each year. They can also handle the competition from tree roots. Some good choices for shade include:

Hostas: These plants come in many varieties and can tolerate a range of shade levels. They have large, attractive leaves and produce flowers in the summer.

Bleeding hearts: These plants have delicate, heart-shaped flowers in white or pink that bloom in the spring. They prefer part shade and well-drained soil.

Ferns: Ferns come in many varieties and can add a lush, tropical feel to your garden. They prefer moist soil and partial shade.

Groundcovers

Groundcovers can be a low-maintenance way to fill in the space under a tree. They help suppress weeds, prevent erosion, and can even improve soil quality. Some good choices for shady areas include:

Creeping Jenny: This fast-spreading plant has bright yellow foliage that looks great against the dark backdrop of a tree trunk. It prefers moist soil and can handle part shade.

Dead nettle: This low-growing plant has silver or variegated leaves and produces small, delicate flowers in the spring. It can handle a range of light levels and soil types.

Wintergreen: This native groundcover has glossy evergreen leaves and produces small, pink or white flowers in the spring. It prefers acidic soil and partial shade.

Bulbs

Bulbs can be an easy way to bring some color to your shady area, especially in the early spring when bulbs like daffodils, crocuses, and snowdrops start to emerge. They can be planted directly in the soil under the tree, or in containers that can be moved around to adjust to changing light levels. Other bulbs to consider include:

Hyacinth: These fragrant bulbs produce tall, spiky flowers in a range of colors in the early spring. They prefer part shade and well-drained soil.

Tulips: These iconic flowers come in many colors and can bloom in early to mid-spring. They prefer full sun, but can handle part shade.

Muscari: These small, bell-shaped flowers come in shades of blue and purple and bloom in early spring. They prefer part shade and well-drained soil.

Final Thoughts

Remember that when planting under a tree, it's important not to disturb the tree's roots. Avoid planting anything that requires deep or invasive digging, as it can damage the tree's root system. Be sure to water your plants regularly, as the tree's roots will absorb much of the moisture in the soil. With the right plants and care, you can create a beautiful and thriving garden under a shady tree.