What to Plant under Large Pine Trees

Large pine trees can be a beautiful addition to any garden or yard. They provide shade, enhance the landscape and offer privacy. However, planting under large pine trees can be challenging. Here are some tips on what to plant under large pine trees:

Consider Soil Type

The soil under pine trees is typically acidic and may contain a lot of pine needles, making it unsuitable for many types of plants. Therefore, it is important to choose plants that can tolerate acidic soil. Plants that grow well under pine trees include ferns, hostas, azaleas, and rhododendrons. These plants are known to grow well in acidic soil and can thrive under the shade of the pine trees.

Think about the Amount of Sunlight

Another important factor to consider is the amount of sunlight that reaches the ground under the pine trees. Pine trees can cast a dense shade, especially when the sun is high in the sky. Therefore, it is essential to select plants that can tolerate shade. Bleeding hearts, sweet woodruff, and lady’s mantle are some of the plants that grow well in the shade and can thrive under the pine trees.

Consider the Size of the Plants

Another important factor to consider when planting under pine trees is the size of the plants. Pine trees tend to have shallow root systems, and planting large bushes or trees under them can damage the roots and affect the overall health of the tree. Therefore, it is advisable to choose plants that do not grow too big or spread too wide. Plants such as creeping phlox, tiarella, and sedum are ideal for planting under pine trees, as they do not grow too big and can spread easily.

Take Care of the Plants

To ensure that the plants thrive under the pine trees, it is essential to take proper care of them. Regular watering, fertilization, and pruning can help the plants to grow healthy and beautiful. Also, it is advisable to mulch the area around the plants to retain moisture and keep the soil cool.

In Conclusion

Planting under large pine trees can be challenging, but with the right plants and proper care, it can be done successfully. By considering the soil type, amount of sunlight, and size of the plants, you can create a beautiful and thriving garden under the shade of the pine trees.