Shade-Loving Plants for Under Trees
Introduction
If you have a shady yard, you know it can be a challenge to find plants that will thrive. But don’t worry, there are plenty of shade-loving plants that can add beauty and interest to your outdoor space. Here are eight of our favorites:
Ferns
Ferns are a great choice for shady areas because they are low-maintenance and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. They can add a touch of lush greenery to your garden and help to create a sense of depth and texture.
Hostas
Hostas are another popular choice for shady gardens. They are known for their attractive foliage, which comes in a wide range of colors and patterns. Hostas are also relatively easy to care for, making them a good choice for beginner gardeners.
Hellebores
Hellebores, also known as Lenten roses, are a beautiful addition to any shady garden. They are known for their early season blooms, which can provide a burst of color when little else is flowering. Hellebores are also drought tolerant, making them a good choice for gardens that receive less water.
Epimedium
Epimedium, also known as barrenwort, is a ground cover that is perfect for shady areas. It is slow to establish, but once it does, it will spread to create a beautiful carpet of foliage. Epimedium is also evergreen, so it will provide year-round interest in your garden.
Bleeding Hearts
Bleeding hearts are a classic cottage garden plant that can add a touch of elegance to your shady garden. They are known for their unique heart-shaped flowers, which hang gently from arching stems. Bleeding hearts are also deer resistant, making them a good choice for gardens that are frequented by deer.
Coral Bells
Coral bells are a member of the Heuchera family and are known for their colorful foliage. They come in a wide range of colors, including shades of dark green, purple, orange, bronze, and bright lime. Coral bells are also relatively easy to care for, making them a good choice for beginner gardeners.
Columbine
Columbine flowers are especially lovely when allowed to naturalize in shady, woodland areas. They are known for their attractive, fern-like leaves and their unusual, spurred flowers. Columbine is also a good choice for attracting pollinators to your garden.
Ajuga
Ajuga, also known as bugleweed, is a low-growing evergreen ground cover that is perfect for shady areas. It is easy to grow and can quickly spread to create a dense carpet of foliage. Ajuga is also a good choice for suppressing weeds.
Tips for Planting Under Trees
When planting under trees, it is important to choose plants that are tolerant of shade and dry soil. You should also consider the size of the tree and the amount of root competition that the plants will face.
Here are a few tips for planting under trees:
- Choose plants that are native to your area. Native plants are more likely to be adapted to the local climate and soil conditions.
- Plant in groups. Planting in groups will help to create a more cohesive look and will also help to suppress weeds.
- Water deeply and regularly. Trees can intercept a lot of rainfall, so it is important to water your plants deeply and regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.
- Mulch around your plants. Mulch will help to retain moisture in the soil and will also help to suppress weeds.
With a little planning and care, you can create a beautiful and thriving shade garden under your trees.
