What to Plant Under Red Maple Trees

Red maple trees (Acer rubrum) are great additions to your landscape as they add colors to your garden all year-round. They are especially beautiful in the fall when their leaves turn a stunning shade of red, orange, or yellow. However, what can you plant under these majestic trees? This article will give you some ideas.

Considerations Before Planting Under Red Maples

Before you start planting under your red maple trees, it's essential to consider some factors to ensure the success of your garden bed. Here are some things to keep in mind:

1. Soil Type

Red maples prefer well-drained, acidic soils with a pH level of 4.5 to 6.5. Be sure to check your soil type before planting anything. You can amend your soil with sulfur, peat moss, or compost to adjust its acidity, if necessary.

2. Light Requirements

Red maples grow best in full sun to partial shade conditions. Keep in mind that the roots of your trees may compete with your garden beds for water and nutrients. Be cautious and don't plant anything that requires a lot of sunlight under the tree's shade.

3. Tree Root System

As mentioned, red maples have an extensive root system that can compete for nutrients and water with other plants in your garden. Be sure to select plants with shallow roots and those that can tolerate the tree's root system.

What to Plant Under Red Maples

1. Hostas

Hostas are hardy and shade-loving plants, making them an excellent choice for planting under red maples. They come in various colors and textures, from green to blue, and they can thrive in the shade without a lot of attention. Moreover, hostas have shallow roots that won't interfere with the tree's root system.

2. Ferns

Ferns are another great option for planting under red maples, as they thrive in even damp, shaded conditions. There are several varieties to choose from, including sword ferns, maidenhair ferns, and lady ferns. Ferns come in different sizes and textures and can be an excellent choice for adding visual interest to your garden.

3. Bleeding Hearts

Bleeding hearts are perennial plants that flower in the spring, making them an excellent choice for brightening up the area under red maples. They are shade-loving plants that thrive in moist soil, making them ideal for planting beside the tree's root system. With their stunning pink or white heart-shaped flowers, bleeding hearts can add bursts of color to your garden under the tree.

4. Astilbes

Astilbes are great for adding structure and height to your garden under your red maples. They produce tall, fluffy flower spikes that come in various shades of pink, purple, and white. They thrive in shade and moist soil, making them excellent companions for the tree's root system.

5. Coral Bells

Coral bells, also known as heucheras, are shade-loving plants that come in various shades of pink, purple, and red. They have shallow roots that won't compete with the tree's root system, making them an excellent option for planting beneath red maples. Besides, their evergreen foliage can add interest to your garden even in the winter months.

Conclusion

Red maples are beautiful and distinctive trees, and planting under them can add a lot of depth to your garden; however, it's essential to consider some factors before planting. Selecting the right plants that can tolerate the tree's root system and thrive in the shade is crucial for a successful garden bed. Hostas, ferns, bleeding hearts, astilbes, and coral bells are all excellent options for planting beneath red maples.