If you’re looking to start a flower garden in the yard, you need to find the best possible spot to start planting. In some cases, you might opt for a shady patch underneath a tree. However, there can be some complications related to the roots. So, you need to evaluate the situation carefully before you start planting flowers or any other type of garden plants in that location.

What You Need to Know About Planting Underneath Trees

Evaluate the Soil & Roots

Every tree has roots that help it access essential water and nutrients. Some roots are large and obstructive, making it hard to dig into the soil underneath. Others have smaller capillaries that can be easily broken but are necessary to keep the tree healthy. It’s important that you research the type of tree that you want to plant under and look carefully at the soil to make sure you won’t cause any damage. For example, crabapple and willow trees can accommodate plants underneath, while pine and oak trees have root systems that don’t leave much room for additional plants.

Choose Compatible Flowers

If you have a tree that can accommodate a flower garden, then you also need to choose flowers that flourish in the environment. This means finding ones that grow in the shade and without a ton of water since the tree’s roots are likely to absorb much of the moisture that gets to that area. Certain types of hydrangeas and lilies thrive in this type of environment, while moonflower and hibiscus tend to need more sunlight and water than what’s available under a tree’s coverage.

Start Your Flowerbeds

Once you’ve decided what you want to plant, add a layer of organic mulch around the tree and then add small transplants to the surrounding soil. When they’re just starting to grow, water those bulbs regularly, as they’re not likely to get a lot from the soil. Alternatively, if you’d like to keep the flowers and tree roots more separate, you could keep the flowers in containers and simply add mulch and garden decorations around them so that it looks like a transplanted garden.

If you’re looking for flowers or garden supplies to spruce up your own yard, P & M Garden Services in Eagle River, AK, can help. They carry a variety of plants for your home and yard, and the team has the expertise to help you make the perfect purchase. For more than 38 years, the community has trusted this popular greenhouse to provide them with the highest quality products and friendly service. You can contact the team online or call (907) 694-9293 to learn more.