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Best Shallow-Rooted Companions for a Young Kousa Dogwood

Under a newly planted kousa dogwood, choose shallow-rooted perennials that won't compete with the tree's establishing roots. Excellent options include dwarf mondo grass (forms a solid green carpet), green 'n' gold, carex, and ajuga. All thrive in the dappled shade and pose no threat to the dogwood's root system.

About Gardening: Dealing with Tree Roots in the Lawn: Removal and Prevention; Tree Roots Lifting Pavers: Switch to Gravel or Raise Patio; Dogwood Tree Not Blooming? Lawn Chemicals May Be the Culprit; Planting Crimson King Maple Near Emerald Ash Borer Stump; Dogwood Roots Lifting Sidewalk? Unlikely—Check Cedar; Planting an Apple Tree in Rocky, Upstate New York Soil; Exposed Oak Roots Along Driveway: Normal, Mulch for Safety; Fragrant Dogwood: Rare 'Fragrant Cloud' Cultivar May Explain Scented Blooms; Saving a Wedding-Day Dogwood: Proper Planting and Care; Tree Roots Invading Your Compost Pile? Here's the Simple Fix

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