What to Plant Near Tree Roots

Trees are essential components of any landscape, providing a range of benefits such as shade, beauty, and oxygen. However, planting near a tree's root system can be tricky because the roots can compete with other plants for nutrients and water.

Tips for Planting near Tree Roots

Before delving into what plants to cultivate near a tree, it's essential to consider certain factors that could help boost your chances of success. Here are some tips:

- Choose Plants That Can Thrive in Shade

The chances are that the trees' canopy shades the ground beneath it, making it a good idea to choose plants that can tolerate shady areas. Moss, ferns, and hosta are excellent choices for shaded areas, and they do not require much sunlight to thrive.

- Plant in Fall

Fall is an excellent time to plant near tree roots. Since the temperatures are cooler and the days are shorter, plants tend to root better with little stress. Besides, the soil retains water better during the fall, providing ample moisture for plants to establish deep roots.

- Be Gentle With the Roots

When planting near tree roots, ensure that you are careful not to damage the existing roots. The slightest disturbance could cause the roots to stop absorbing water and nutrients from the soil, causing the tree to struggle. Therefore, you should avoid using heavy garden tools and instead use your hands to loosen the soil gently.

Best Plants to Plant near Tree Roots

- Groundcovers

Pachysandra: It's an evergreen plant that grows to about six inches tall and can spread for several feet. Pachysandra tolerates shade and grows well near deciduous trees.

Periwinkle: Periwinkle is an evergreen plant that tolerates shade well, making it an excellent choice for planting near tree roots. It grows to about six inches tall and can spread for several feet, forming a dense blanket of attractive foliage.

Ajuga: Ajuga can grow up to four inches tall and spread several feet, forming a dense mat of leaves. It does well in shaded and partially shaded areas and can tolerate a range of soil types.

- Ferns

Christmas: Christmas ferns are evergreen ferns that can grow up to three feet tall and three feet wide. They look amazing when planted near deciduous trees and can tolerate dry and wet soils.

Lady ferns: Lady ferns are tall and grow up to four feet tall and two feet wide. They require shade and moist soils to thrive, making them an excellent choice for planting near tree roots.

- Annuals and Bulbs

Daffodils: Daffodils bloom early in the spring and require minimal maintenance, making them an excellent choice for planting near tree roots.

Begonias: Begonias are bulb-like plants that come in a variety of colors and can tolerate shaded areas, making them an excellent choice for planting near tree roots.

- Shrubs and Vines

Hydrangea: Hydrangeas grow well in shaded areas and can bloom for an extended period. They are easy to cultivate and require minimal maintenance.

Virginia creeper: Virginia creeper is an excellent choice for planting near tree roots. It grows well in shaded areas and can climb up the tree trunks, adding an attractive cover of foliage.

In Conclusion

Planting near tree roots is a delicate process that requires careful consideration of certain factors, such as the type of plant and the soil's condition. Annuals, groundcovers, shrubs, ferns, and bulbs are all excellent choices for planting near tree roots. However, it's essential to avoid planting invasive plants that can harm the tree's root system or other surrounding plants.