How to Grow Plants Under Trees

Gardening under trees can be challenging, but it is also an opportunity to create a beautiful and unique garden space. The challenge arises from the fact that trees shade the ground, which can make it difficult for plants to grow. However, with a little planning and creativity, it is possible to create a lush and thriving garden under trees. Here are some tips for growing plants under trees:

1. Choose the Right Plants

When choosing plants for your garden, it is important to consider the amount of sunlight they need. For gardens under trees, it is best to choose plants that can tolerate shade or partial shade. Some shade-loving plant options include ajuga, hostas, ferns, and astilbe. It is also important to consider the soil conditions under the trees, as they may have a different pH or moisture level than other areas of your garden.

2. Prepare the Soil

Before planting, it is essential to prepare the soil. Trees can deplete the soil of nutrients, so it is necessary to add organic matter to the soil to help plants grow. You can add compost, mulch, or other organic materials to the soil to improve its quality. It is also important to ensure that the soil drains well, as the area under trees can be wet and boggy if the drainage is poor.

3. Protect the Tree Roots

When planting under trees, it is important to be careful not to damage the tree roots. Trees rely on their roots to absorb water and nutrients from the soil, and damage to the roots can cause the tree to suffer. To avoid damaging the roots, it is best to plant shallow-rooted plants and avoid heavy tilling or digging in the soil.

4. Water Properly

Proper watering is crucial for the health of your plants. Under trees, the soil may dry out more slowly than other areas of the garden, so it is important to water the plants deeply and regularly. However, you should avoid over-watering, as this can lead to root rot or other problems. A good rule of thumb is to water deeply once a week, rather than lightly more often.

5. Add Some Color

Although shade-loving plants tend to have more subtle colors, you can still add some color to your garden by choosing plants with colorful foliage or flowers. For example, hostas come in a variety of colors, from blue-green to yellow, and ferns can add a lot of texture to your garden. You could also consider adding colorful mulch or garden ornaments to brighten up the space.

6. Consider the Tree’s Needs

When planning your garden, it is important to consider the needs of the tree as well as the needs of your plants. Trees can benefit from mulch and organic fertilizer, which can help to replenish nutrients in the soil. However, it is important to avoid adding too much fertilizer, which can harm the tree. You should also be careful not to damage the bark of the tree when gardening or using tools.

Growing plants under trees can be a bit more challenging than gardening in other areas, but with the right plants and techniques, it can be a rewarding and beautiful venture. By choosing shade-loving plants, preparing the soil properly, protecting the tree roots, watering correctly, adding color, and considering the tree’s needs, you can create a thriving and visually stunning garden under your trees.