What Plants to Plant under Pine Trees

Having the perfect garden can require a bit of thought and planning. If you have pine trees in your garden, you might be wondering what plants to plant under them that will thrive in these conditions. Pine trees are known for creating acidic soils, and their shade can also be a challenge for many plants. However, with a little bit of knowledge, you can create a beautiful and flourishing garden that complements your pine trees.

Choose Shade-Loving Plants

One of the easiest ways to complement pine trees is to choose plants that prefer shady conditions. Some plants even thrive in the shade and can tolerate the extremely acidic soils that pine trees create. Hostas are a prime example of these plants. They have large, lush leaves and come in a range of colors. They are perfect for planting under pine trees, as they require little light and can tolerate acidic soil.

Another Option: Acidic Soil-Loving Plants

Pine trees alter the pH levels in the soil, making it quite acidic. If you want to choose plants that will thrive under these conditions, then look for ones that prefer acidic soils. Blueberries, rhododendrons, and azaleas are a few examples of plants that love acidic soils. These plants will add some much-needed color to the area under your pine trees and will create a beautiful contrast to the green pine needles.

Groundcovers and Perennials

Groundcovers and perennials are another great option for planting under pine trees. These plants create a low-maintenance landscaping solution that requires very little water or upkeep. Some groundcovers, such as creeping phlox, even thrive in acidic conditions, making them perfect for planting under pine trees.

Perennials like ferns are another great option for planting under pine trees. Ferns have the added benefit of quick growth, making them perfect for filling in shady areas of your garden. Since they love moist soil, they work well under pine trees where soil tends to stay damp.

The Bottom Line

Choosing what plants to plant under pine trees can require a bit of thought and research, but by selecting shade-loving, acidic soil-loving plants or groundcovers and ferns, you can create a beautiful garden that complements your pine trees. With a little bit of patience and care, you can have a flourishing garden that is sure to impress.