What to Plant Under an Elm Tree

Elm trees are beautiful, majestic trees that provide plenty of shade and character to any landscape. However, planting beneath them can be a bit tricky. Elms tend to have shallow roots that compete with other plants for resources. Additionally, they produce a lot of foliage that can block out sunlight. Despite these challenges, there are still plenty of plants that can thrive beneath an elm tree.

1. Ground Cover Plants

When choosing plants for under an elm, ground covers are an excellent option. Ground covers are low-growing plants that spread out to cover the bare ground beneath taller plants. They are perfect for filling in the spaces where an elm tree's roots have made it difficult to grow other types of plants. Some of the best ground covers for planting under an elm tree include pachysandra, ivy, and hosta.

2. Perennials

Perennials are plants that come back year after year, making them a great investment for any garden. They can also provide a splash of color to the area under the elm. Some popular perennials that can do well under an elm tree include columbine, black-eyed Susan, and daylilies. However, it's important to choose plants that can tolerate shade, as the elm tree's canopy can block out a lot of sunlight.

3. Annuals

If you're looking for a quick and easy way to add some color to the area under your elm tree, annuals are a great choice. Annuals are plants that live only for one growing season, but they can provide you with plenty of colorful flowers all season long. Some good annuals to plant under an elm tree include marigolds, cosmos, and petunias. But again, be sure to choose plants that can thrive in shady conditions.

4. Ferns

Ferns are a great option for planting under an elm tree because they are shade-loving plants that require little maintenance. There are many varieties of ferns to choose from, including the delicate-looking maidenhair fern or the bold and architectural bird's nest fern. Ferns can also add a lush and tropical feel to your garden, which can be a nice contrast to the elm's rustic look.

5. Bulbs

Bulbs are another great planting option for under an elm tree. They are easy to plant and require little in the way of maintenance. Many bulbs are shade-loving, making them perfect for growing under the canopy of an elm tree. Some of the best bulbs to plant under an elm tree include snowdrops, daffodils, and crocuses.

Conclusion

Planting under an elm tree can be a challenge, but with the right plants, it can also be incredibly rewarding. Whether you choose ground covers, perennials, annuals, ferns or bulbs, be sure to select plants that can tolerate shade and shallow soil. With a little bit of planning and patience, you can create a beautiful and thriving garden under the shade of your elm tree.