Introduction

Evergreen trees are a common feature in most landscapes. They retain their leaves all year round, making them ideal for creating all-year-round foliage. However, their constant shade and rich soils can be a challenge for growth. Most plants have specific light and soil requirements, which may not be met under evergreen trees. But that doesn't mean there are no options. With a little knowledge and planning, you can create a garden beneath your evergreens that adds beauty and interest. In this article, we delve into what plants will grow under evergreen trees.

The Challenges of Planting Under Evergreen Trees

Evergreen trees are beautiful and provide year-round shade, but they can pose challenges when planting beneath them. The constant shade prevents sunlight reach to the ground, making it challenging for most plants to grow. Additionally, evergreen trees often have a dense canopy that sheds lots of needles, which creates acidic soil. That makes it tricky to select the right plants to thrive under evergreen trees.

What Plants Will Grow Under Evergreen Trees?

Despite the challenges of planting under evergreen trees, there are dozens of plants that will thrive beneath them. The key is to pick native and shade-loving plants that are adapted to such conditions. They include:

1. Ferns

Ferns are perhaps the most popular plant to grow under evergreen trees, thanks to their love of shade and acidic soil. They come in different varieties, including Lady Fern, Maidenhair Fern, and Japanese Painted Fern. These are easy to grow and require limited maintenance, making them ideal for beginners.

2. Hostas

Hostas are another popular choice for planting under evergreen trees. They come in different sizes, colors, and shapes, and most of them are shade-loving plants. They add texture and color, making them ideal for creating a bed of contrasting plants beneath evergreens. Hostas also thrive in acidic soil, which makes them the perfect companion plant for evergreen trees.

3. Bleeding Hearts

Bleeding Hearts are shade-loving perennials that grow well under evergreen trees. Often available in pink or white, these plants can add interest and color to your garden bed. They prefer well-drained, moist acidic soil, which make them perfect for growing under evergreen trees. Bleeding Hearts require minimal maintenance but will need adequate watering during hot, dry spells to thrive.

4. Astilbe

Astilbe is another shade-loving perennial that can survive under an evergreen canopy. The plant is available in different varieties, each with its color and foliage. Astilbe prefers moist, well-drained soil, and that makes evergreen trees the best location for planting them. They also help to improve the quality of the soil, creating a thriving ecosystem beneath your evergreen trees.

5. Heuchera

Heuchera is an excellent choice if you want to add color and texture to your garden bed. They come in different shapes and sizes and feature vibrant foliage that adds interest to your garden. These plants usually thrive in moist, well-drained soil and will do well under the shade of evergreen trees. They are also effortless to grow, making them an excellent choice for beginners.

Conclusion

Evergreen trees do not have to limit your gardening options. With a little creativity and knowledge, you can create a thriving garden bed beneath your evergreens. The key is to select native and shade-loving plants that are adapted to such conditions. The plants mentioned above are some excellent examples of what plants will grow under evergreen trees, providing ground cover, texture, and color for a lovely garden bed. So why not add some of these plants to your garden today!