What to Plant Around a Weeping Cherry Tree

A weeping cherry tree is a beautiful addition to any landscape. Its graceful form and stunning flowers make it a favorite among gardeners. However, planting around a weeping cherry tree can be a challenge. The tree's shallow roots and dense canopy make it difficult to grow other plants beneath it. Here are some suggestions for what to plant around a weeping cherry tree to create a beautiful and functional garden.

1. Groundcovers

One of the best plants to grow around a weeping cherry tree are groundcovers. Groundcovers are low-growing plants that spread quickly, providing a dense carpet of foliage that helps to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Some good choices for groundcovers around a weeping cherry tree include:

Creeping phlox

Ajuga

Thyme

Creeping sedum

Creeping Jenny

These plants are all fairly drought-tolerant and can thrive in the dappled shade beneath a weeping cherry tree. They also have shallow roots that won't compete with the tree's roots for nutrients and moisture.

2. Shade-loving perennials

Another option for planting around a weeping cherry tree is to choose shade-loving perennials. Perennials are plants that come back year after year, so they are a good investment in your garden. Some good choices for shade-loving perennials around a weeping cherry tree include:

Hosta

Ferns

Astilbe

Bleeding heart

Columbine

These plants all prefer a shady, moist environment, which makes them a good match for the conditions beneath a weeping cherry tree. They also have relatively shallow root systems that won't interfere with the tree's roots.

3. Spring bulbs

If you want to add some seasonal color to your garden, consider planting spring bulbs around your weeping cherry tree. Spring bulbs, such as tulips, daffodils, and crocuses, bloom in early spring and add a bright splash of color to the landscape. They are also fairly low-maintenance and can be left in the ground year-round.

Make sure to plant your bulbs in the fall, when the soil is still warm enough to allow them to establish their root systems. Plant them in clusters of five or more for maximum impact.

4. Mulch

If you're not sure what to plant around your weeping cherry tree, consider using mulch instead. Mulch is a layer of organic material, such as shredded bark or leaves, that is spread over the soil to help retain moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature.

Mulch also has the benefit of being easy to install and maintain. Simply spread a layer of mulch around the base of your weeping cherry tree, making sure not to pile it up against the trunk, and you're done!

Conclusion

Planting around a weeping cherry tree can be a challenge, but with a little creativity and planning, you can create a beautiful and functional garden that complements your tree. Whether you choose groundcovers, shade-loving perennials, spring bulbs, or mulch, make sure to select plants that are well-suited to the conditions beneath your tree. With the right plants and care, your weeping cherry tree can be the centerpiece of a stunning garden.