What to Plant by Trees with Exposed Roots

Trees with exposed roots can provide a beautiful and unique addition to any landscape. However, the exposed roots can create challenges when it comes to choosing what to plant around them. Fortunately, there are a variety of plants that can thrive in these conditions and complement the tree's natural beauty. In this article, we will explore some of the best plants to consider planting by trees with exposed roots.

1. Groundcovers

Groundcovers are an excellent choice for planting around trees with exposed roots. These low-growing plants can help to stabilize the soil and reduce erosion, while also providing a colorful and textured backdrop to the tree. Some popular groundcovers include creeping phlox, vinca minor, and sweet woodruff. These plants are easy to care for and can adapt to a range of soil types and light conditions.

2. Ferns

Ferns are another great plant to consider when landscaping around trees with exposed roots. These shade-loving plants can thrive in the cool, moist soil beneath the tree's canopy. Some species, such as the eastern wood fern, can even tolerate drier soil conditions. Ferns come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from delicate maidenhair ferns to large, showy ostrich ferns. Planting a mix of fern species can create a lush, textured look around the tree.

3. Hostas

Hostas are a popular choice for planting around trees with exposed roots. These shade-loving plants can provide a pop of color and texture to the base of the tree. Hostas come in a wide variety of sizes and colors, from small, compact plants to larger, showier varieties. Some popular hosta cultivars include ‘Blue Angel’, ‘Gold Standard’, and ‘Frances Williams’. These plants are easy to care for and can thrive in a range of soil types and light conditions.

4. Perennial Flowers

Perennial flowers can also be a great option for planting around trees with exposed roots. These plants can provide bursts of color and texture throughout the growing season. Some popular perennial flowers to consider include coneflowers, black-eyed susans, and daylilies. These plants are often easy to care for and can tolerate a range of soil types and light conditions. However, it's important to choose plants that are well-suited for the level of sunlight and moisture in the area around the tree.

5. Shrubs

Shrubs can be a great way to add some height and structure to the area around a tree with exposed roots. Some popular shrubs to consider include hydrangeas, azaleas, and rhododendrons. These plants can produce showy flowers in the spring and summer and attractive foliage in the fall. Shrubs can also provide a natural screen to help create privacy in your yard. However, it's important to choose shrubs that are well-suited for the soil type and sunlight levels in the area around the tree.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are many great plants to consider when landscaping around trees with exposed roots. Groundcovers, ferns, hostas, perennial flowers, and shrubs can all thrive in these conditions and complement the tree's natural beauty. However, it's important to choose plants that are well-suited for the specific soil and light conditions in your yard. By carefully selecting the right plants, you can create a beautiful and vibrant landscape around your tree with exposed roots.