What to Plant Below My White Maple Tree

Planting beneath a white maple tree can be a challenge, as the tree’s dense shade and shallow roots can make it difficult for some plants to thrive. However, with careful selection and proper care, you can create a lush and beautiful garden bed beneath your white maple tree. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best plants to consider for this type of planting area.

Perennials

Perennials are a great choice for planting beneath a white maple tree, as they can add color and texture to the space without requiring too much maintenance. Some good options include:

Hostas – these shade-loving plants come in a variety of sizes and leaf shapes, and can add a lot of interest to a garden bed.

Ferns – ferns are also shade-loving and can add a graceful, feathery look to a garden bed.

Astilbe – this plant produces fluffy, colorful plumes of flowers that bloom in mid-summer, making it a great choice for adding some brightness to a shady spot.

Groundcovers

Groundcovers are an especially good choice for planting underneath a white maple tree, as they can help to suppress weeds and keep the soil moist. Some good options to consider include:

Creeping phlox – this low-growing plant produces pretty pink, blue, or white flowers in early spring.

Ajuga – this plant has shiny, colorful foliage and produces spikes of blue or purple flowers in late spring.

Periwinkle – periwinkle is a fast-growing, low-maintenance plant that produces pretty blue or purple flowers in early spring.

Shrubs

Shrubs can add some height and structure to a garden bed beneath a white maple tree. Some options to consider include:

Hydrangea – hydrangeas are a popular choice for shady spots, as they produce large, showy flowers in shades of blue, pink, or white.

Azalea – azaleas are also known for their showy flowers, which bloom in late spring or early summer.

Rhododendron – rhododendrons are another popular choice for shady spots, as they produce brightly colored blooms in mid- to late spring.

When selecting plants for your white maple garden bed, be sure to choose varieties that are well-suited to your climate and soil conditions. Also, be mindful of the tree’s root system when planting, and avoid disturbing the roots as much as possible. By taking these factors into consideration, you can create a beautiful and thriving garden bed beneath your white maple tree.