Introduction

Cherry trees are beautiful and popular ornamental trees, but their bare soil underneath creates an opportunity for gardening. By planting at the base of the cherry tree, you can create a beautiful and functional garden bed that complements the tree and adds new dimensions to your landscape. In this article, we will explore some of the best plants to grow at the base of your cherry tree.

Shade-Tolerant Plants

Cherry trees cast a lot of shade, so it's important to choose plants that can thrive in these conditions. Some great shade-tolerant options include:

Heuchera: These low-growing perennials have striking foliage and provide a pop of color at the base of the tree.

Hosta: Hostas are known for their resilience in shady locations and come in a variety of colors and textures.

Bleeding Heart: This classic perennial is known for its delicate, heart-shaped flowers that bloom in the spring.

Lamium: Lamium is a hardy groundcover that features silver or green foliage and small, delicate flowers in shades of pink or purple.

Fruit and Nut Trees

If you're looking to plant something that can complement your cherry tree both visually and functionally, consider planting other fruit or nut trees. Some great options include:

Pear: Pears are a great fruit tree to plant near cherry trees as they also require similar conditions to thrive. They have beautiful flowers in the spring and will produce fruit in the late summer.

Apple: Apple trees also make great companions to cherry trees, as they have a similar look and feel. They also produce beautiful flowers and delicious fruit.

Almond: Almond trees are small to medium-sized trees that will add a unique and interesting element to your landscape. They produce edible nuts and have beautiful white or pink flowers in the spring.

Vines and Climbing Plants

If you're looking to add some vertical interest to the base of your cherry tree, consider planting some climbing plants or vines. Some great options include:

Clematis: Clematis is a beautiful climbing vine that comes in a wide range of colors and flower shapes.

Honeysuckle: Honeysuckle is a versatile climbing plant that produces fragrant flowers in shades of pink, orange, and yellow.

Passionflower: Passionflower is a unique climbing plant that produces beautiful and exotic blooms in the summer.

Herbs and Vegetables

If you're looking to create a functional garden bed at the base of your cherry tree, consider planting herbs and vegetables. Some great options include:

Basil: Basil is a fragrant herb that can be used in a variety of dishes. It is easy to grow and will complement your cherry tree beautifully.

Tomatoes: Tomatoes are a popular vegetable that will thrive in the sunnier areas around the base of the tree. They will also add some beautiful color to your garden.

Carrots: Carrots are a root vegetable that are easy to grow and will add some interest and texture to your garden bed.

Conclusion

Planting at the base of your cherry tree can add a lot of beauty and functionality to your garden. By choosing shade-tolerant plants, fruit and nut trees, climbing plants, or herbs and vegetables, you can create a garden bed that complements your cherry tree and creates a flourishing ecosystem in your backyard.