What to Plant in Between Trees

When growing trees, it is important to consider the space between them. Leaving large gaps or bare soil can lead to issues such as erosion or the growth of weeds. To avoid these problems, it is recommended to plant ground covers or understory plants in between trees. Here are some options for what to plant in between trees.

Perennials

Perennials are plants that grow and bloom for multiple years. They are a great option for planting in between trees because they provide color and texture throughout the seasons. Some popular choices include hostas, daylilies, and sedums. Hostas are known for their large, lush leaves and come in a variety of colors. Daylilies have colorful flowers that bloom for many weeks, and sedums have interesting foliage and flower heads that attract pollinators.

Ground Covers

Ground covers are low-growing plants that spread across the soil to form a dense cover. They are great for planting in between trees because they help to suppress weeds and prevent soil erosion. Some popular choices include creeping thyme, ajuga, and vinca. Creeping thyme produces fragrant flowers throughout the summer and is a great option for sunny areas. Ajuga is a shade-loving plant that has striking purple foliage and blue flowers. Vinca produces masses of flowers in shades of blue, purple, pink, and white.

Ferns

Ferns are another great option for planting in between trees. They are low-maintenance plants that thrive in shady areas. Ferns come in a variety of shapes and sizes, from small delicate species to larger bushy plants. Some popular choices include maidenhair fern, ostrich fern, and cinnamon fern. Maidenhair fern has a delicate appearance and is known for its distinctive fan-shaped leaves. Ostrich fern has fronds that can grow up to six feet long and produce an interesting pattern. Cinnamon fern has cinnamon-colored spores that appear in the late summer and fall.

Herbs

Herbs are a great option for planting in between trees because many of them are easy to grow and have fragrant leaves. Some popular choices include thyme, oregano, and rosemary. Thyme is a low-growing plant that produces fragrant leaves that can be used for cooking or to make tea. Oregano is another fragrant herb that is often used in Mediterranean cuisine. Rosemary is a woody herb that has fragrant leaves and produces blue flowers in the spring.

Conclusion

When it comes to planting in between trees, there are many options to choose from. Whether you choose perennials, ground covers, ferns, or herbs, the key is to select plants that can thrive in the specific soil and light conditions of your tree planting site. By selecting the right plants, you can create an attractive and functional landscape that complements your trees and helps to promote a healthy ecosystem.