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Planting Flowers Under Shade Trees: Protect Roots and Choose the Right Plants

Plantings under trees enhance landscapes but require precautions. Avoid digging under the canopy to prevent root damage. Instead, spread ≤4 inches of topsoil, then 2 inches of chopped leaf mulch (decomposes to humus). Plant in this new layer. Also avoid damaging the trunk.

Classic shade plants for under trees:

Ajuga, Astilbe, Caladium, Epimedium
Ferns, Foamflower, Fuchsia, Lily-of-the-valley
Liriope, Lungwort, Solomon's-seal, Spiderwort, Wild ginger

Tree: Indoor Lemon Tree Losing Leaves? Complete Care Guide for Potted Citrus; Arborvitae for Shade Screening? Better Alternatives; Growing Ground Cover Under Mature Maple Trees: Solutions for Shade and Root Competition; Landscaping Under Mature Oak and Elm: Shade-Tolerant Wildlife Plantings; Shade Tree Alternatives to Maple, Oak, and Poplar; Diagnosing Two Problem Trees: Borer and Canker; Landscaping Under Magnolia Trees: Solutions for Bare Ground; Tulip Tree (Liriodendron tulipifera): The Majestic Native for Shade, Timber & Wildlife; Best Shade Trees for Your Yard: Sycamore, Maple, Elm, and Oak; Purple Flowering Trees: Jacaranda, Orchid Tree & More for Landscape Drama

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