What to Plant Under Cedar Trees: A Guide to the Best Ground Covers

What to Plant Under Cedar Trees

Cedar trees are a beautiful addition to any landscape, but they can also be a challenge to plant under. Cedar trees have a dense canopy that casts a lot of shade, and their roots can be aggressive. This can make it difficult for other plants to compete for water and nutrients.

However, it is possible to find plants that will thrive under cedar trees. The key is to choose plants that are tolerant of shade and have shallow roots. Some good options include ferns, hostas, azaleas, and rhododendrons.

In this article, we will discuss the best plants to grow under cedar trees. We will also provide tips on how to care for these plants and how to create a beautiful and inviting landscape under your cedar trees.

What to Consider When Choosing Plants for Under Cedar Trees

When choosing plants for under cedar trees, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.

• Shade tolerance: Cedar trees cast a lot of shade, so you need to choose plants that can tolerate this. Look for plants that are listed as being “shade tolerant” or “part shade tolerant.”
• Root competition: Cedar trees have a lot of roots, and they can be aggressive. This can make it difficult for other plants to compete for water and nutrients. Choose plants that have shallow roots or that are not as water- and nutrient-demanding as cedar trees.
• Size: Cedar trees can grow to be very large, so you need to make sure you choose plants that will not be overshadowed by the trees. Choose plants that are the same size or smaller than the cedar trees.
• Hardiness zone: Cedar trees are hardy in a variety of zones, so you can choose plants that are hardy in the same zone as your cedar trees. This will help to ensure that the plants will be able to tolerate the climate in your area.

Some Good Plants for Under Cedar Trees

Here are some good plants that will thrive under cedar trees:

• Ferns: Ferns are a great option for under cedar trees because they are tolerant of shade and have shallow roots. Some good options include maidenhair fern, Christmas fern, and deer fern.
• Hostas: Hostas are another good option for under cedar trees. They are tolerant of shade and have shallow roots. Hostas come in a variety of colors and leaf shapes, so you can choose one that will complement the look of your cedar trees.
• Azaleas and rhododendrons: Azaleas and rhododendrons are beautiful flowering plants that are tolerant of shade. They do best in acidic soil, so make sure to amend your soil if necessary.
• Heucheras: Heucheras are also known as coral bells. They are beautiful, low-maintenance plants that are tolerant of shade. Heucheras come in a variety of colors, so you can choose one that will add a pop of color to your landscape.

Tips for Caring for Plants Under Cedar Trees

Here are a few tips for caring for plants under cedar trees:

• Water regularly: Cedar trees can take up a lot of water, so it is important to water your plants regularly, especially during dry spells.
• Fertilize annually: Cedar trees can also take up a lot of nutrients, so it is important to fertilize your plants annually. Use a fertilizer that is specifically formulated for shade-tolerant plants.
• Prune as needed: Cedar trees can cast a lot of shade, so you may need to prune your plants to allow them to get enough sunlight. Prune your plants in the spring or early summer.

Creating a Beautiful Landscape Under Cedar Trees

With a little planning and care, you can create a beautiful and inviting landscape under your cedar trees. By choosing the right plants, and by following the tips above, you can create a space that is both functional and beautiful.

Plant	Description	Benefits
Azaleas	Azaleas are a type of flowering shrub that is well-suited for growing under cedar trees. They thrive in acidic soil and partial shade, making them a perfect choice for this environment. Azaleas also produce beautiful flowers in a variety of colors, making them a great addition to any garden.	Attract butterflies and other pollinators Provide colorful foliage and flowers Help to improve the soil pH
Hostas	Hostas are a type of perennial plant that is also well-suited for growing under cedar trees. They are tolerant of shade and can tolerate a wide range of soil conditions. Hostas also produce beautiful flowers and foliage, making them a great addition to any garden.	Provide shade and shelter for wildlife Attract butterflies and other pollinators Help to improve the soil quality
Ferns	Ferns are a type of vascular plant that is well-suited for growing under cedar trees. They thrive in moist, shady conditions, making them a perfect choice for this environment. Ferns also produce beautiful foliage, making them a great addition to any garden.	Help to improve the air quality Attract butterflies and other pollinators Provide a natural groundcover

Cedar trees are a popular choice for landscaping because they are evergreen, drought-tolerant, and relatively low-maintenance. However, their dense foliage can make it difficult to grow other plants under them. If you are looking to add some greenery to the space under your cedar trees, there are a few things you need to keep in mind.

Types of Cedar Trees

There are four main types of cedar trees that are native to North America:

• Eastern red cedar (Juniperus virginiana)
• Western red cedar (Thuja plicata)
• Northern white cedar (Thuja occidentalis)
• Atlantic white cedar (Chamaecyparis thyoides)

Each type of cedar tree has its own unique characteristics, such as growth rate, mature height, and tolerance for shade. It is important to choose a type of cedar tree that is well-suited to your climate and growing conditions.

Considerations for Planting Under Cedar Trees

When choosing plants to grow under cedar trees, there are a few things you need to keep in mind:

• Soil conditions
• Light requirements
• Water needs
• Competition for nutrients and water

Soil conditions

Cedar trees typically grow in well-drained, acidic soil. If your soil is not acidic, you may need to add peat moss or sulfur to lower the pH.

Light requirements

Cedar trees can tolerate a wide range of light conditions, but they will grow best in full sun. If you are planting under a cedar tree, choose a plant that can tolerate shade.

Water needs

Cedar trees are drought-tolerant, but they will need more water during periods of drought. If you are planting under a cedar tree, make sure to water the plants regularly, especially during dry spells.

Competition for nutrients and water

Cedar trees are heavy feeders and can compete with other plants for nutrients and water. If you are planting under a cedar tree, choose a plant that is not too demanding in terms of nutrients and water.

With careful planning, you can successfully grow a variety of plants under cedar trees. By taking into account the specific conditions under the tree, you can choose plants that will thrive in the shade and compete less with the cedar tree for resources.

Here are some specific plants that you can consider planting under cedar trees:

• Ferns
• Hostas
• Astilbe
• Heuchera
• Epimedium
• Vinca
• Pachysandra
• Tiarella
• Brunnera
• Geranium

These plants are all tolerant of shade and can thrive in the acidic soil that cedar trees typically grow in. They will also not compete too much with the cedar tree for nutrients and water.

By choosing the right plants for your cedar trees, you can create a beautiful and lush understory that will add to the beauty of your landscape.

Plants That Grow Well Under Cedar Trees

Cedar trees (Cedrus spp.) are evergreen conifers that are native to the Mediterranean region. They are popular landscape plants in North America, where they are grown for their attractive foliage, fragrant scent, and tolerance of drought and poor soil conditions. Cedar trees can grow to be very large, so it is important to choose plants that will be compatible with their size and shade requirements.

The following are some plants that grow well under cedar trees:

• Groundcovers:
• Ajuga
• Creeping phlox
• Lamium
• Pachysandra
• Vinca
• Perennials:
• Anemone
• Bleeding heart
• Columbine
• Daylily
• Iris
• Shrubs:
• Azalea
• Camellia
• Rhododendron
• Viburnum
• Trees:
• Dogwood
• Japanese maple
• Magnolia
• Oak

When choosing plants for your cedar tree, it is important to consider the following factors:

• Sunlight: Cedar trees require full sun, so the plants you choose should be able to tolerate shade.
• Water: Cedar trees are drought-tolerant, but the plants you choose should be able to tolerate dry conditions.
• Soil: Cedar trees grow best in well-drained soil, so the plants you choose should be able to tolerate poor soil conditions.

By following these tips, you can choose plants that will thrive under your cedar tree.

Care for Plants Under Cedar Trees

Once you have chosen the right plants for your cedar tree, it is important to provide them with the proper care.

• Watering: Cedar trees are drought-tolerant, but the plants you choose should be watered regularly, especially during dry periods.
• Fertilizing: Cedar trees do not require much fertilizer, but the plants you choose may benefit from a light application of fertilizer in the spring.
• Pruning: Cedar trees do not require much pruning, but the plants you choose may need to be pruned to maintain their shape.
• Pest control: Cedar trees are not typically susceptible to pests, but the plants you choose may be affected by pests such as aphids, caterpillars, and mites.

By following these tips, you can help your plants thrive under your cedar tree.

Cedar trees are beautiful and versatile landscape plants that can add a touch of elegance to any garden. By choosing the right plants to grow under your cedar tree, you can create a beautiful and low-maintenance landscape that will provide you with enjoyment for years to come.

What to Plant Under Cedar Trees?

Cedar trees are a popular choice for landscaping, but they can be challenging to plant under. The dense canopy of cedar trees casts a lot of shade, which can make it difficult for other plants to thrive. However, there are a few plants that can tolerate the shade and make a beautiful addition to your landscape.

Here are some of the best plants to grow under cedar trees:

• Hostas are a type of shade-loving perennial that come in a variety of colors and leaf shapes. They are easy to grow and require little maintenance.
• Azaleas are another type of shade-loving shrub that produces beautiful flowers in the spring. They are a bit more difficult to grow than hostas, but they are well worth the effort.
• Ferns are a type of evergreen plant that come in a variety of shapes and sizes. They are very easy to grow and require little maintenance.
• Heucheras are a type of perennial that produces beautiful foliage in a variety of colors. They are easy to grow and require little maintenance.
• Sedges are a type of grass-like plant that comes in a variety of colors and textures. They are very easy to grow and require little maintenance.

When planting under cedar trees, it is important to keep the following in mind:

• Choose plants that are tolerant of shade.
• Plant the plants at least 5 feet away from the trunk of the tree.
• Water the plants regularly, especially during dry spells.
• Mulch around the plants to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.

By following these tips, you can successfully grow a beautiful garden under your cedar trees.

Additional tips for planting under cedar trees:

• If you are looking for a ground cover to plant under cedar trees, consider using a type of moss. Moss is a low-maintenance plant that will thrive in the shade.
• If you want to add some height to your garden, consider planting a shade-tolerant tree or shrub. Some good options include Japanese maple, mountain laurel, and rhododendron.
• When choosing plants for your garden, be sure to consider the overall look and feel that you want to create. For example, if you want a formal garden, you might choose to plant a variety of evergreens and flowering shrubs. If you want a more informal garden, you might choose to plant a variety of perennials and annuals.

By following these tips, you can create a beautiful and inviting garden under your cedar trees.

there are many different plants that can be grown under cedar trees. The best plants for your specific situation will depend on the amount of sunlight, moisture, and soil conditions in your yard. By considering these factors, you can choose plants that will thrive under your cedar trees and add beauty and interest to your landscape.

Here are a few key takeaways from this article:

• Cedar trees can provide shade and shelter for a variety of plants.
• The best plants for under cedar trees are those that are tolerant of shade, moist soil, and acidic conditions.
• Some good choices for under cedar trees include ferns, hostas, azaleas, rhododendrons, and evergreen groundcovers.
• When planting under cedar trees, it is important to dig a hole that is wider than the root ball of the plant and to amend the soil with compost or peat moss.
• Water newly planted trees and shrubs regularly until they are established.

By following these tips, you can create a beautiful and inviting landscape under your cedar trees.