- Struggling to find plants that thrive and add color under dense tree canopies?
- Discover how challenging these shaded spots can be due to lack of light and root competition.
- Learn about a surprising plant solution that brings vibrant foliage to deep shade.
- Get practical tips for successfully gardening in these tricky spots.
Do you look at the space under your large, majestic trees and sigh, wondering what grows beneath tall trees that can actually look good? It’s a common dilemma for many gardeners. While a mature tree provides wonderful shade on a hot day – a true oasis in the landscape – that very shade creates a significant challenge for finding plants that will not only survive but also flourish and add a splash of much-needed color. Most of our favorite flowering plants crave sunlight, making the deep, dry shade under a large tree canopy seem like a lost cause. But don’t despair! There are creative ways and specific plants that can transform these challenging areas into beautiful parts of your garden.
Contents
The Challenge of Gardening Under Trees
Planting under large, established trees presents a unique set of obstacles. First and foremost is the lack of sunlight. The dense canopy of a large tree, while offering cool respite, blocks out much of the light that most plants need for photosynthesis, particularly for flowering and producing vibrant colors.
But it’s not just the shade. The tree’s extensive root system also competes fiercely for water and nutrients in the soil. What little rain or irrigation reaches the ground beneath the canopy is quickly absorbed by the tree’s dominant roots, leaving precious little for smaller understory plants. This often results in what gardeners call “dry shade.” The soil can also be compacted and depleted over time.
Experienced gardener or tree specialist sharing landscape advice
These combined factors mean that many popular garden plants simply won’t survive, let alone put on a colorful show, in the challenging environment beneath tall trees. Trying to force sun-loving annuals or perennials into these spots usually leads to weak growth, minimal blooms, and disappointment.
Discovering the Perfect Shade Companion
Finding plants that can tolerate shade and add color is the key to livening up these areas. While many shade-tolerant plants offer lovely foliage textures and shades of green, gardeners often crave that vibrant pop of color to contrast with the deep shadows. This is where we need to think outside the box and consider plants that use something other than flowers to make their statement.
This leads us to a rather surprising and often overlooked option for adding significant, long-lasting color beneath the canopy of a large tree: planting another tree! Now, before you think that sounds counter-intuitive – and in most cases, planting trees close together is generally avoided due to future competition – there’s a specific type of tree that actually thrives in the very conditions created by a large shade tree and provides stunning color through its foliage.
Japanese Maples: A Surprising Solution
The plant we’re talking about is the Japanese Maple (Acer palmatum). While you might typically think of groundcovers or low shrubs for underplanting, certain varieties of Japanese Maples are perfectly suited for this niche, particularly if you want to add a striking focal point of color.
What makes Japanese maples work so well under tall trees?
- Shade Tolerance: Unlike many trees and colorful plants, Japanese Maples, especially the varieties with red or purple foliage, actually prefer partial shade or even full shade. Direct, intense sunlight, particularly in hot climates, can scorch their delicate leaves, turning them brown and crispy. The canopy of a large tree provides the ideal filtered light or dappled shade they crave.
- Manageable Size: Most Japanese Maple cultivars suitable for underplanting are slow-growing and remain relatively small compared to the towering tree above them. They typically reach heights of 10-15 feet or less with a similar spread, allowing them to fit comfortably beneath the lower branches of a larger tree without becoming a competing giant. Their structure is often airy, allowing views through to the main tree trunk.
- Stunning Foliage Color: This is their superpower in the shade garden! While many plants rely on flowers for color, Japanese Maples provide season-long interest with their dramatic leaf colors. Many popular varieties feature deep reds, burgundies, or even variegated patterns that hold their color beautifully in shaded conditions, providing that vibrant contrast against green foliage that you desire.
Japanese Maple Details & Care
To help you understand if a Japanese Maple is right for your under-tree spot, here are some general details:
- Scientific Name: Acer palmatum
- Common Name: Japanese Maple
- Zone: Typically USDA Zones 5-8 (some varieties may extend to 4 or 9)
- Light: Partial shade to full shade. Crucially, avoid direct afternoon sun.
- Humidity: Prefers average to high humidity, but can adapt.
- Water: Requires consistently moist, well-drained soil. Does not tolerate soggy conditions. Regular watering is essential, especially when establishing and during dry periods. Mulching helps retain soil moisture.
Additional points:
- Soil: Prefers slightly acidic, fertile, well-drained soil. Compacted or heavy clay soils common under older trees may need significant amendment with compost.
- Size Variability: While many stay small, some cultivars can get larger. Research the mature size of the specific variety you choose. ‘Bloodgood’ is a popular red variety, but can get larger over time; dwarf or weeping forms like ‘Crimson Queen’ or ‘Tamukeyama’ often stay smaller.
- Common Issues: Leaf scorch (browning edges) is the most common problem, almost always due to too much sun or not enough water. Verticillium wilt is a serious fungal disease they can be susceptible to, but often proper siting and care minimize risks.
Why Planting a Tree Under a Tree Works (Sometimes)
It seems counter-intuitive, right? Planting a tree under another tree is usually a big gardening no-no. Larger, more vigorous trees will inevitably outcompete smaller ones for resources.
However, the Japanese Maple is a specific exception in certain scenarios. Its moderate, slow growth habit and preference for the very shade provided by the larger tree mean it’s not directly competing for light. While root competition is still a factor, choosing a smaller variety and ensuring adequate watering and soil preparation can give the Japanese Maple the head start it needs. The key is selecting a variety that complements the existing tree in size and light needs, rather than challenging it.
Tips for Success When Planting Under Trees
Gardening under trees requires a little extra effort, but the results are worth it:
- Improve the Soil: The soil under trees can be poor and compacted. Amend it generously with organic matter like compost before planting to improve drainage, fertility, and water retention. Be careful not to damage major tree roots.
- Water Wisely: Watering needs are critical under established trees. The canopy can block rain, and the tree’s roots drink deeply. Water deeply and regularly, especially during dry spells. A soaker hose or drip irrigation can be very effective. Apply mulch around the new plant (keeping it away from the trunk) to help retain moisture.
- Choose the Right Variety: Select a Japanese Maple cultivar whose mature size and shape are appropriate for the space under your tree’s canopy. Consider dwarf or weeping forms for smaller areas.
- Mind the Roots: When digging, you will encounter tree roots. Try to dig planting holes between major roots if possible. Avoid cutting large, essential tree roots (more than 1-2 inches in diameter) as this can harm the main tree.
- Planting Depth: Ensure the Japanese Maple is planted at the same depth it was in its nursery container. Planting too deep can lead to issues.
Conclusion
Finding what grows beneath tall trees that offers both survival and stunning color can feel like a puzzle. But by understanding the unique challenges of these shaded environments and choosing the right plant for the job, you can transform neglected corners into garden highlights. The Japanese Maple, with its shade tolerance, manageable size, and spectacular foliage color, is a prime example of a plant that can thrive where many others fail, bringing vibrant life to the often-overlooked space beneath your magnificent trees.
Ready to add color to your shade garden? Consider a Japanese Maple! Do you have other favorite plants for challenging shaded spots? Share your experiences in the comments below! Explore more ideas for shady gardens on Thelittle.garden!
