Jun 1, 2021
5 Do’s & Don’ts for Planting Under Trees
Here are a few rules to keep in mind when planting under trees to create the optimum growing conditions.
 
1) Do trim away lower branches 
Trimming away a few of the lower tree branches will provide more space for planting and allow light to come in under the tree.
 
2) Don’t build a raised bed
Building a raised bed around the base of the tree in an attempt to create better soil for the flowers can harm or even kill the tree. Most trees have surface roots that require oxygen to survive. When compost, soil and mulch are piled up thick around a tree, it suffocates the roots.
 
3) Do plant in holes
When planting under trees, give each plant its own hole. Carefully dig holes to avoid damage to the tree’s shallow root system. Each hole can be filled with composted organic matter to help benefit the plant.
 
4) Don’t plant large plants
Tall plants will grow too high for the area and start trying to grow through the tree’s lower branches, while large plants will also block the sunlight and view of other smaller plants in the garden. Stick with smaller, low-growing, shade-loving plants like Beacon Impatiens for the best results.
 
5) Do water the flowers after planting
For the first couple of weeks after planting, water plants under the tree daily on days it does not rain, until the plants can establish roots.
Reader Comments (6)
Can impatiens be planted close to walnut trees?
Sunday, May 14, 2023 | Hoi Hei Ho
What plants are around the tree in the last pic?
sherriscotttomb@twc.com
Monday, March 18, 2024 | Sherri tomb
Hi Sherri! Thanks for reading our Beacon Impatiens blogs and learning more about our plants. In the last photo, we're featuring Beacon Formula Mix around the center ring of the tree, along with Begonia Canary Wings (in the chartreuse color on the left), Spreading Begonia Hula red (in the back near the shrubbery), and New Guinea Impatiens Divine Blue Pearl (in the pink color close to the walkway).
Monday, March 18, 2024 | Katie - Beacon Impatiens Team
What plants/flowers can I plant around my Giant Oak?
Wednesday, June 19, 2024 | Donna
The variety of flowers around the tree are beautiful. I wondering if I can place a couple of large rocks around the tree as well. Just for the asthetic . Or would this be harmful to the tree ?
Sunday, February 16, 2025 | Etta Evans
Hi Etta! While we don't claim to be tree experts / arborists, here is what we found online about Rocks used around the base of trees: Smaller rocks instead of large, heavy rocks are a better choice. Rocks can absorb and retain heat, which can harm the tree's roots. They may also hide drainage issues, which can lead to root rot. If you do place rocks, be sure to place them in a shaded or cooler area to avoid heat buildup. Your local garden center can give you other best-practices for aesthetic choices around the base of your trees.
Monday, February 17, 2025 | Katie - Beacon Impatiens Team
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