What to Plant Under Oak Trees in Louisiana

Homeowners in Louisiana are blessed with some of the most gorgeous oak trees in the country, and many of us are always on the lookout for ideas of what to plant under them to make the most of their beauty. Oak trees serve as excellent shade providers, but the shade can make it difficult to find plants that can thrive in the low light conditions. Fortunately, there are a variety of options that can integrate seamlessly with the oak roots, making them the ideal addition to the landscape.

Native Alternatives

Native plants are always a great choice to plant under oak trees. American Beautyberry, Louisiana Phlox, and Southern Shield Fern, for example, are all plants that would thrive under an oak tree. Since they are native to Louisiana, these plants have already had plenty of opportunities to adapt to the local conditions, making them likely to flourish. They also support Louisiana's ecology by providing habitat and food for native wildlife, which further enhances the state's forests and rivers.

Perennials

Perennials are essential for long-term plantings under oak trees. They provide a reliable source of flowering color, and many are generally low maintenance, saving time on upkeep. Hostas are perennials that grow well in the shade and come in various colors, including blue-green, chartreuse, and multi-colors. They are also hardy and can tolerate a variety of soil types. Other perennials that would do well under oak trees include iris, ferns, and Solomon’s seal.

Ground Covers

Ground covers offer an excellent way to keep the soil around oak trees moist and shaded while providing a visually pleasing ground level. Creeping Jenny is a fast-growing, low-maintenance ground cover that thrives in shade and damp soil. The plant forms a dense mat of delicate green leaves that creates a calm, peaceful atmosphere. Other ground cover options include ajuga, pachysandra, and even moss.

Bulbs

Bulbs add a pop of color in the spring, and Louisiana homeowners can never go wrong planting bulbs under oak trees. Plant varieties such as daffodils or crocus in the fall before the first hard freeze of the year for a beautiful burst of yellow or purple in the spring. Tulips can also add beautiful colors to the landscape, but they generally do not maintain for an extended period.

Conclusion

Planting under oak trees can be challenging due to the shade and dry soil conditions, but there are still many options available. Choosing native plants, perennials, ground covers, and bulbs to thrive under the shade of the beautiful oaks found in Louisiana can enhance the landscape's beauty and support the local ecology. Regardless of which option you choose, incorporating a variety of species can create a diverse, visually interesting, and functional space around the oak tree that will enhance your outdoor living experience.