What to Plant around a Tree with Exposed Roots

Having trees with exposed roots in your yard can be a beautiful sight to behold. However, it can be quite challenging to determine what plants to grow around them. Exposed roots are fragile, and you need to be gentle around them. In this article, we will explore some of the plants that you can grow around trees with exposed roots.

Consider the Shade and Soil Type

Before selecting the plants to grow in the area around your tree, consider the shade and soil type. Most of the plants that thrive in exposed root conditions require partial shade. If your tree is situated in a spot that receives intense sunlight, you may need to prune the tree to reduce the amount of light it receives.

In addition, the soil type can also influence the type of plants that you grow around the tree. Trees with exposed roots require a water-retentive soil, so look for plants that thrive in such conditions.

Groundcovers For Exposed Root Trees

Groundcovers are an excellent option for planting around a tree with exposed roots. Some good choices include:

Creeping Phlox: This popular groundcover thrives in partial shade, is easy to care for, and adds a splash of color to your yard.

Carpet Bugleweed: This is another low-growing plant that is also drought-resistant. It thrives in shade and will spread as it grows, covering the exposed roots around the tree.

Barren Strawberry: This groundcover is perfect for shaded, rocky areas. It requires little maintenance, and you can rely on it to cover the exposed areas around the tree.

Shrubs and Ferns

Shrubs and ferns are another great option for planting around trees with exposed roots. Both types of plants thrive in partial shade and grow well in water-retentive soils. Some great choices include:

Korean Boxwood: This is a slow-growing shrub that is perfect for planting around the base of your tree. It requires little maintenance and will add a beautiful green color to your yard.

Japanese Holly Fern: This is an excellent plant for planting around exposed roots. It is a low-growing fern that can tolerate shade and adds texture to your yard.

Mountain Laurel: This is a beautiful evergreen shrub that blooms with pink or white flowers in the spring. It is perfect for adding color to your yard and requires little maintenance.

Conclusion

Growing plants around trees with exposed roots requires careful consideration of the soil type and amount of shade. Groundcovers, shrubs, and ferns are all excellent options for planting around these trees. Be sure to choose plants that are gentle on the roots and don't require too much maintenance. With the right plants, you can transform the area around your exposed root tree into a beautiful and thriving garden.