What Plants can Grow Under Cedar Trees

Cedar trees are a common sight in many landscapes and gardens. Known for their beautiful and fragrant wood, cedars also offer a great deal of shade to their surroundings. However, with the shade and needle-covered ground comes the challenge of finding plants that can thrive under these conditions. This article will explore some of the plants that can grow under cedar trees and how to care for them.

What to Look for in Plants

When selecting plants to grow under cedar trees, it's important to consider some key factors. First, the plants should be shade-tolerant, as the cedar trees will likely block most of the sunlight. Secondly, the plants should be able to tolerate the acidic conditions created by the cedar needles and soil. Lastly, the plants should be able to compete with the cedar tree's root system, which can be quite extensive.

Plants that Thrive Under Cedar Trees

Groundcovers are an excellent choice for growing under cedar trees. These plants can spread quickly, cover bare ground, and provide a low-maintenance option for those looking to add some greenery. Some groundcovers that thrive in acidic and shady conditions include:

Periwinkle

Hostas

Creeping phlox

Spotted deadnettle

Ajuga

Another option is to choose shade-tolerant shrubs or small trees. These plants can provide some height and structure to the landscape, and some can even bloom with beautiful flowers. Some recommended choices include:

Japanese yew

Mountain laurel

Hydrangeas

Chokeberry

Caring for Plants Under Cedar Trees

Once you have chosen your plants, it's important to give them the right care to ensure their success. One of the most important things you can do is to prepare the soil before planting. Cedar trees create acidic soil, which can be detrimental to many plants. Adding lime to the soil can help to neutralize the pH and make it more suitable for most plants.

In addition to soil preparation, it's important to water your plants regularly. Cedar trees can absorb a great deal of moisture, leaving little for other plants in the area. As such, you may need to water your plants more frequently to ensure they are receiving adequate moisture.

Finally, it's important to keep an eye on your plants and make sure they are not being overwhelmed by the cedar tree's root system. If you notice that your plants are struggling, you may need to add more soil or mulch to help prevent the cedar tree from competing for resources.

Conclusion

While growing plants under cedar trees can be challenging, it's certainly not impossible. By choosing the right plants, preparing the soil, and providing adequate care, you can create a beautiful and healthy garden under your cedar trees. Whether you choose groundcovers or shrubs, there are many options available that can thrive in the acidic and shady conditions around your cedar trees.