What to Plant around an Oak Tree

Planting around an oak tree can enhance the beauty of your outdoor space while providing additional benefits for the environment. However, it is important to consider the type of plants that will thrive in the shade and root system of the oak tree. In this article, we will discuss the ideal plants to grow around an oak tree and some tips for keeping them healthy and attractive.

Types of Plants to Grow around an Oak Tree

The types of plants that can thrive around an oak tree depend on the amount of shade, moisture, and root competition provided by the oak tree. Here are some of the best types of plants to consider:

Ground covers: Plants such as creeping myrtle, wild ginger, and hosta are great for covering bare soil and suppressing weeds around the oak tree. They thrive in the shade and require minimal watering.

Shrubs: Some shrubs such as azaleas, hydrangeas, and rhododendrons can thrive in the shade and add colorful blooms to your garden. They require regular watering and pruning to maintain their shape and size.

Ferns: Ferns are a great way to add greenery to your garden and thrive in the shade. They require moist soil and regular watering.

Perennials: Perennials such as bleeding hearts, lungwort, and astilbe can also thrive in the shade and add color and texture to your garden. They require regular watering, fertilization, and pruning to keep them healthy and attractive.

Annuals: Annuals such as impatiens, begonias, and coleus can add vibrant color to your garden and are great for filling in gaps around the oak tree. They require regular watering and fertilization.

Tips for Planting and Caring for Plants around an Oak Tree

When planting around an oak tree, it is important to follow these tips:

Choose plants that can tolerate the amount of shade: As mentioned earlier, the amount of shade provided by the oak tree will determine the type of plants that can thrive. Choose plants that can tolerate partial to full shade.

Plant away from the trunk: Avoid planting too close to the trunk of the oak tree as it can cause damage to the root system. Instead, plant at least 3 feet away from the trunk.

Be mindful of the root system: Oak trees have a large, shallow root system that can compete with other plants for nutrients and water. Consider planting shallow-rooted plants or those that can tolerate root competition.

Water regularly: Plants around an oak tree can suffer from lack of moisture due to the shade and root competition. Water regularly to keep the soil moist, but avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot.

Provide proper fertilization: Use a slow-release fertilizer to provide nutrients to the plants around the oak tree. Avoid fertilizing too close to the trunk as it can burn the roots.

Prune regularly: Prune shrubs, perennials, and annuals regularly to maintain their shape and size. Avoid pruning too close to the trunk as it can damage the root system.

With these tips in mind, you can enjoy a beautiful and thriving garden around your oak tree. By choosing the right plants and providing proper care, you can enhance the beauty of your outdoor space and contribute to a healthy environment.