Trees add beauty to your landscape, but the area directly beneath them can be inhospitable to other plant life. To ensure the space remains healthy and looks its best, here are a few landscaping do’s and don’ts to keep in mind.

Do:

Use the right plants.

Although many non-native plants perform well in Hawaii, plenty of indigenous options are perfect for growing beneath trees. Used as accents or groundcovers, ‘ilima papa, i‘lie‘e, lauae, and nanea are some options that thrive in partial shade and limited moisture.

Add some fresh mulch.

If you’d rather not tend to plant life beneath the tree, you can still achieve a beautiful look by adding mulch around it instead. Use a variety that complements the rest of your landscape and creates a cohesive look. For example, use the same mulch as your flower beds. It will not only safeguard the trunk from damage while you’re mowing but also regulate the tree’s temperature and prevent unsightly weed growth.

Don’t:

Put soil on the grass.

When trying to create a new area for plants, don’t just lay down soil on the lawn beneath a tree. Harmful thatch may develop, which blocks vital air and moisture from the grass and underlying tree roots. Remove the grass first, then fill the area with soil.

Place beds too close.

Never establish the garden bed directly around the tree trunk. Placing soil and mulch against the bark will lead to the tree’s slow decay from the ground up. Maintain a distance of at least one foot away from the trunk to avoid smothering the tree roots as well.  

The landscaping professionals at Sherwood’s Tree Service will help transform the ground around your trees and breathe new life into your outdoor space. Serving residents throughout Oahu since 1974, the family-owned and -operated company offers reliable tree care, stump removal, hydroseeding, and trimming services to ensure your yard always looks its best. Visit them online to learn more about their extensive options, or call them at (808) 537-9705 to make an appointment.