Introduction

Planting under oak trees can provide an aesthetically-pleasing and functional garden space. However, it is important to pick the right plants that thrive in the unique environment created by mature oak trees. This article will provide tips and suggestions for what to plant under oak trees in North Carolina.

Considerations for Planting Under Oak Trees

Before starting to plant under oak trees, there are several factors to consider. One is the amount of sunlight that reaches the area. Oak trees typically have dense canopies that block out a significant amount of sunlight, so it’s important to choose plants that can tolerate shade. Another factor to consider is the soil type. Oak trees prefer acidic soil, so it’s important to choose plants that thrive in that environment. Finally, select plants that are drought-resistant because oak trees have a deep root system that can compete for water.

Perennials for Planting Under Oak Trees

There are many beautiful perennials that can thrive under oak trees in North Carolina. Some of these include:

Hostas – These are shade-loving perennials that come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. They have attractive foliage and bloom with beautiful flowers in the summer.

Astilbes – These perennials have feathery plumes of white, pink or red flowers that bloom in late spring and early summer. They prefer moist soil and can tolerate light shade.

Ferns – There are many varieties of ferns that can thrive in the shaded environment under oak trees. Some popular options include maidenhair ferns, ostrich ferns, and royal ferns.

Heucheras – These perennials are also known as coral bells and have attractive foliage with a range of colors, including bronze, purple, and green. They bloom with delicate flowers in the spring and prefer well-draining soil with light shade.

Groundcovers for Planting Under Oak Trees

Planting groundcovers under oak trees can add color and interest to the landscape while also reducing the need for maintenance. Some excellent groundcovers for planting under oak trees in North Carolina include:

Periwinkle – Also known as Vinca minor, this groundcover produces beautiful blue or white flowers in the spring and is a hardy plant that can tolerate the shade and acidic soil under oak trees.

Liriope – This is a hardy groundcover with attractive, grass-like foliage that produces delicate flowers in shades of purple and pink in late summer. It tolerates sun or shade and prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic.

Wild ginger – This groundcover is native to North Carolina and produces attractive leaves that have a glossy, dark green appearance. It has a strong root system that can help prevent soil erosion and prefers moist soil and shade.

Shrubs for Planting Under Oak Trees

Shrubs can provide structure and create a more diverse landscape under oak trees. Select shrubs that can tolerate shade and acidic soil. Here are some great options for planting under oak trees in North Carolina:

Camellia – This evergreen shrub produces beautiful flowers in shades of pink, red or white in early spring. It prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic and tolerates light shade.

Azaleas – These shrubs are known for producing a profusion of flowers in shades of pink, red, white or purple in the springtime. They prefer acidic soil and can tolerate light shade.

Dogwood – This is a small tree or shrub that produces beautiful flowers in shades of pink or white in the springtime. It grows well in acidic soil and can tolerate light shade.

Conclusion

Choosing the right plants for planting under oak trees in North Carolina can be a fun and rewarding project. When selecting plants, consider the amount of shade and acidity of the soil in the area. Perennials like hosta, astilbe, ferns, and heucheras can add color and texture to the space. Groundcovers like periwinkle, liriope, and wild ginger can help reduce maintenance and add beauty. Shrubs like camellia, azaleas, and dogwood can provide structure and charm to the area. By selecting the right plants, you can create a beautiful and functional garden space under your oak trees.