Introduction

Redwood trees are majestic and long-living trees that are primarily found in the Pacific Northwest region of the United States. These trees are known for their massive size and towering height, and their dense canopy often creates a unique microclimate that can be challenging for plants to thrive in. However, with careful selection and intentional planning, it is possible to cultivate a diverse and thriving garden under a redwood tree canopy. In this article, we will explore what plants work well under redwood trees.

Shade-Loving Plants

One of the biggest challenges of gardening under redwood trees is dealing with the dense shade created by the tree canopy. To thrive in these conditions, it is essential to select plants that can tolerate low light levels. Some shade-loving plants that perform well under redwoods include ferns, hostas, hellebores, and heucheras.

Moisture-Tolerant Plants

Redwood trees are known for their water-holding capacity, and their roots are adapted to absorb moisture from the air and soil. This means that plants growing under redwoods must be able to tolerate moist, sometimes soggy soil conditions. Some moisture-tolerant plants that thrive under redwood trees include astilbes, bleeding hearts, ligularia, and goat's beard.

Groundcovers

Gardening beneath a redwood tree is often a challenge due to the presence of large tree roots, which can make it difficult to grow plants with deep root systems. One solution is to use groundcovers, which can effectively cover the soil while also providing a natural-looking and low-maintenance gardening solution. Some excellent groundcover options for redwood tree gardens include vinca, sweet woodruff, wintergreen, and wild ginger.

Native Plants

Another way to ensure a successful garden under a redwood canopy is to use native plants, which are well-suited to the unique growing conditions created by the tree. Native plants can also provide an important food source and habitat for local wildlife. Some attractive and easy-to-grow native plants that thrive under redwoods include western trillium, Pacific bleeding heart, northern maidenhair fern, and woodland strawberry.

Conclusion

Gardening under redwood trees is a unique and rewarding experience that requires careful planning and selection of plants that are well-suited to the conditions created by the tree canopy. By choosing plants that are shade-loving, moisture-tolerant, and well-suited to the unique root structure of the tree, it is possible to create a thriving garden that enhances the beauty of these majestic trees while also providing a home for local wildlife and a source of joy and inspiration for the gardener.