What to Plant Under Flowering Cherry Tree

Flowering cherry trees are some of the most beautiful and sought-after ornamental trees. Their stunning appearance makes them an ideal choice as a centerpiece in any garden or landscaping feature. With their gorgeous blossoms of pink, white, or red, they make any outdoor space look stunning. However, planting under a flowering cherry tree can be a challenge for many gardeners. This article will provide you with helpful tips on what to plant under a flowering cherry tree.

The Challenges of Planting Under a Flowering Cherry Tree

Before we delve into the best plants to consider when planting under a flowering cherry tree, it is essential to understand the challenges that come with it. Flowering cherry trees can be quite vigorous and competitive, making it hard to grow certain plants beneath them. Additionally, the delicate roots of the flowering cherry tree can be damaged by shallow planting.

Best Plants to Plant Under Flowering Cherry Tree

1. Hostas. Hostas are a popular choice for planting under flowering cherry trees. They have large leaves that provide a lush, full look and can handle the shade created by the cherry tree canopy. They also offer an excellent contrast to the cherry blossoms' delicate flowers with their unique foliage colors and textures.

2. Bleeding hearts. These lovely plants offer a unique touch to the area under the cherry tree. Their delicate heart-shaped flowers appear around the same time that the cherry trees bloom, creating a stunning display. Bleeding hearts thrive in shady areas, making them perfect for growing under flowering cherry trees.

3. Ferns. Ferns are a popular choice for shady areas in any garden. Their delicate, feathery foliage provides an excellent texture contrast to the cherry tree's bark and flowers. Additionally, ferns are well adapted to the soil and light conditions that shade-loving plants require, making them perfect for growing under a flowering cherry tree.

4. Vinca. Vinca, commonly known as periwinkle, is a popular choice for garden beds and borders. These tough plants can tolerate shade and have lovely blue or white flowers that bloom in the spring and summer. They also have a creeping habit, which makes them great for underplanting the canopy of cherry trees.

Things to Avoid When Planting Under a Flowering Cherry Tree

While there are many plants that can thrive under flowering cherry trees, there are a few things that you should avoid planting. These include:

1. Plants that are too invasive. Any plant that spreads aggressively can overtake the delicate root system of the flowering cherry tree, leading to stunted growth or dieback. Examples of invasive plants include creeping juniper, periwinkle, and goutweed.

2. Plants that require deep planting. Cherry trees have shallow root systems that can be damaged by deep planting. Avoid planting any new plants deeper than the existing soil level.

3. Plants that require full sun. Flowering cherry trees create a shade canopy that can block most of the sun's rays, making it difficult for plants that require full sun to thrive.

Conclusion

Planting under a flowering cherry tree can add a fantastic touch to any garden or outdoor space. With the right selection of plants, you can create a stunning and unique landscape. Remember to keep in mind the challenges of planting under the cherry tree and choose plants that can thrive in the existing soil and lighting conditions. By following these tips, you can create a beautiful and vibrant natural area that complements the beauty of your cherry tree for years to come.