What to Plant Under Crabapple Tree

Crabapple trees are a beautiful addition to any yard. They are not only attractive, but they also provide a bountiful harvest of delicious fruit. However, many homeowners struggle with what to plant under their crabapple trees. This article will explore some of the best options for plants that can thrive in the shadow of a crabapple tree.

Shade-Loving Perennials

Shade-loving perennials are a great option for planting under crabapple trees. They are low-maintenance, they come back year after year, and they can add a pop of color to an otherwise dull area. Some great options include hostas, ferns, and bleeding hearts. Hostas come in a variety of colors and sizes and make an excellent ground cover. Ferns are a classic choice for shady areas, and bleeding hearts are a unique, heart-shaped flower that adds a touch of whimsy to any garden.

Flowering Shrubs

Another great option for planting under crabapple trees is flowering shrubs. These plants have the added benefit of adding height and visual interest to your garden. Some great options include rhododendrons, azaleas, and hydrangeas. Rhododendrons and azaleas come in a wide range of colors and can be found in both evergreen and deciduous varieties. Hydrangeas are also available in several different varieties and have beautiful blooms that add a pop of color to any garden.

Groundcovers

Groundcovers are a great choice for planting under a crabapple tree. They help to suppress weeds, protect the soil, and provide a lush, green cover. Some great options include ajuga, creeping phlox, and vinca. Ajuga has striking purple foliage and produces spikes of blue flowers in the spring. Creeping phlox is available in a variety of colors and produces masses of flowers in the spring. Vinca, also known as periwinkle, is a low-maintenance groundcover that produces masses of blue flowers.

Native Plants

Native plants are always a good choice for planting under a crabapple tree. They are adapted to the local climate and soil conditions and require less maintenance than non-native plants. Some great options include wild ginger, woodland phlox, and foamflower. Wild ginger has heart-shaped leaves and produces a small, purplish-brown flower. Woodland phlox produces masses of pink or white flowers in the spring, and foamflower has a delicate white flower that blooms in late spring to early summer.

Conclusion

When it comes to planting under a crabapple tree, there are plenty of options to choose from. Shade-loving perennials, flowering shrubs, groundcovers, and native plants all make excellent choices. When deciding what to plant, it's important to consider the amount of shade the tree provides, the soil conditions, and the overall look you're trying to achieve. By choosing the right plants, you can create a beautiful and thriving garden under your crabapple tree.