What to Plant for Ground Cover Under Trees

Choosing the right ground cover for underneath trees is an important decision for any homeowner. Ground cover plays a vital role in maintaining soil moisture, providing nutrients and adding visual appeal to your garden. When it comes to selecting the best option, there are several factors you need to consider. Here are some tips on what to plant for ground cover under trees:

Type of Tree

The type of tree you are planting ground cover under plays a crucial role in determining which plants will thrive. Trees with dense canopies like evergreens and oaks may not allow enough sunlight to reach the ground, so you need to choose shade-loving plants that can survive with minimal light. Alternatively, deciduous trees like maples and birches offer more light for ground cover plants, encouraging different kinds of plants to flourish.

Soil Conditions

The soil conditions under your tree are another important factor to consider when choosing ground cover plants. Trees often have large root systems that absorb moisture and nutrients from the soil, leaving minimal resources for other plants. If your soil is dry and nutrient-depleted, you need to choose ground cover plants that can tolerate these types of conditions. In contrast, if the soil is damp and rich in organic matter, you can select plants that prefer these conditions.

Low Maintenance Options

When choosing ground cover plants for under trees, it is important to consider how much time and effort you are willing to invest in their maintenance. Some plants require more maintenance than others, requiring regular watering and pruning to keep them healthy. If you are looking for a low-maintenance option, choose plants that require minimal care, such as mosses, ferns or creeping phlox. These ground covers are hardy and require little attention, which makes them perfect for busy gardeners.

Visual Appeal

The visual appeal of your ground cover plant is an important consideration when it comes to adding beauty to your garden. You can choose plants that enhance the aesthetic of your garden with different foliage colors, textures and shapes. For instance, lily of the valley provides fragrant bell-shaped flowers, while pachysandra has glossy green leaves that can be an attractive accent to your trees. Selecting plants that offer visual appeal can create a more diverse and attractive landscape setting.

Final Thoughts

Selecting ground cover plants for under trees is an important decision, but it doesn't have to be complicated. By taking into account the type of tree, soil conditions, maintenance needs and visual appeal, you can find a ground cover plant that is both functional and visually appealing. As always, make sure to do your research and choose plants that are appropriate for your climate zone, and you will be on your way to creating a beautiful and functional garden setting.