What to Plant Under Oak Trees in Kansas

Oak trees are known for their stately beauty, providing shade and a home to wildlife. But what can you plant under oak trees in Kansas that will thrive without competing with the tree? Here are some suggestions for plants that will complement your oak tree and beautify your landscape.

1. Ground Covers

One of the best options for planting under oak trees is a ground cover. Low-growing plants won't compete with the oak's roots for water and nutrients, and can help deter weeds. Here are some ground cover options:

Creeping Jenny: With its bright green leaves and yellow flowers, creeping Jenny is a cheerful ground cover. It does well in partial shade and can tolerate dry soil.

Campanula: Bellflowers are hardy plants that can take shade or sun. They come in a variety of heights and colors, so choose the one that best suits your yard.

Pachysandra: Pachysandra is a low-growing shrub that spreads by creeping along the ground. It prefers shade and moist soil.

2. Shrubs

Filling in the space under your oak tree with a few shrubs can add texture and interest to your landscape. Choose shrubs that can tolerate shade and dry soil:

Witch Hazel: In the fall, this shrub bursts into bloom with orange, yellow, and red flowers. It does well in shade or sun and can tolerate dry soil.

Rose of Sharon: This shrub produces large, colorful flowers in the summer. It does well in partial shade and can tolerate dry soil.

Viburnum: Viburnum is a tough shrub that can take shade or sun. It produces white flowers in the spring and has attractive foliage in the fall.

3. Perennials

If you want some variety in your under-oak planting, consider adding a few perennials. Just make sure they can tolerate shade and dry soil:

Columbine: This plant has delicate, bell-shaped flowers in a variety of colors. It does well in partial shade and needs well-draining soil.

Sedum: Sedum is a succulent plant that comes in a variety of shapes and sizes. It prefers dry, well-draining soil and can tolerate sun or shade.

Hosta: Hostas are known for their large, attractive foliage. They prefer shade and moist soil.

4. Native Plants

If you're interested in planting under your oak tree to support local ecosystems, consider choosing plants that are native to Kansas. Native plants are adapted to the climate and soil conditions, and can provide habitat and food for local wildlife. Here are some native plants to consider:

Wild strawberry: This low-growing plant produces sweet, edible fruit and has attractive foliage. It prefers partial shade and moist soil.

Purple coneflower: This iconic prairie plant produces purple-pink flowers in the summer. It prefers full sun but can tolerate light shade.

Liatris: Also known as blazing star, this plant produces tall spikes of pink or purple flowers. It prefers full sun but can tolerate light shade.

When planting under oak trees, it's important to remember not to disturb the tree roots. Use a light touch and choose plants that won't compete with the oak for resources. With the right plants, you can create a beautiful, thriving under-oak garden in Kansas.