Cedar trees have a natural resistance to many types of plants growing beneath them due to their fragrant oils, which can be toxic to some species. However, there are still many options you can consider planting under cedar trees, such as shade-loving perennials like hostas, ferns, and impatiens, or low-growing groundcovers like thyme, creeping juniper, or sweet woodruff.
As an avid gardener, I’ve always been fascinated by the majesty of cedar trees.
Their towering presence, their fragrant aroma, and their ability to create a sense of serenity in any outdoor space – it’s no wonder why they’re often considered the crown jewel of many landscapes.
But did you know that these magnificent trees also offer a secret benefit that can revolutionize your gardening game?
By planting under their canopy, you can harness the power of cedar trees’ low-maintenance root systems, natural pest control, and soil enrichment capabilities to create a thriving oasis in your own backyard.
In this blog post, we’ll dive into the best options for planting under cedar trees – from low-maintenance ground covers to shade-loving perennials, edible plants, and even ornamental grasses.
Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just starting out, you won’t want to miss these game-changing tips for making the most of your cedar tree’s benefits.
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Benefits of Planting Under Cedar Trees
When it comes to planting under cedar trees, many gardeners are curious about what benefits they can reap from doing so.
Well, let me tell you – there are some fantastic advantages to planting in the shadow of these majestic trees!
Provide Shade: The Cool-Season Crop Companion
Cedar trees are like nature’s umbrellas, providing a canopy of shade that’s perfect for planting cool-season crops.
Imagine growing crisp lettuce, crunchy carrots, or succulent spinach without worrying about those pesky sunbeams scorching your leaves.
It’s like having your own personal greenhouse!
And the best part?
The shade also reduces soil moisture loss and prevents weeds from germinating, making it a win-win for any gardener.
Soil Enrichment: Low-Maintenance Roots
Cedar trees have an added bonus when it comes to soil health – their low-maintenance root systems don’t compete with other plants for water and nutrients.
This means you can plant companion crops like comfrey, which acts as a fertilizer factory, without worrying about the cedar’s roots getting in the way.
It’s like having a built-in soil enrichment system!
Natural Pest Control: The Pesticide-Free Way
Last but not least, cedar trees release oils that repel certain pests, reducing the need for pesticides and keeping your garden chemical-free.
Imagine planting alongside these natural pest repellents and enjoying the benefits of a healthy, thriving ecosystem!
It’s like having your own personal bug-zapper squad, minus the noise and hassle.
So there you have it – three compelling reasons to plant under cedar trees.
Whether you’re looking for shade, soil enrichment, or natural pest control, these majestic trees have got you covered.
And who knows?
You might just find yourself falling in love with the unique charm of gardening under a cedar tree canopy!
Best Options for Planting Under Cedar Trees
When it comes to planting under cedar trees, you want options that are as majestic as the tree itself.
I mean, who wants a bunch of lackluster plants hiding the beauty of those towering branches?
Not me!
That’s why I’m excited to share my top picks for what to plant under cedar trees.
Option 1: Low-Maintenance Ground Covers
Now, if you’re looking for something that’ll thrive without breaking a sweat (or your back), low-maintenance ground covers are the way to go.
And trust me, there’s no better duo than creeping thyme and vinca minor!
Creeping Thyme (Thymus serpyllum): This little guy is a superstar when it comes to partial shade and dry soil.
It’s like the ultimate underdog – spreads out, forms a dense mat, and still manages to look fabulous despite the challenging conditions.
Vinca Minor (Periwinkle): Ah, Vinca minor!
A beautiful evergreen ground cover with those gorgeous blue-purple flowers that’ll add some much-needed color to your shaded area.
And the best part?
It can handle a range of light conditions, so you don’t have to worry about it getting too much or too little sun.
Option 2: Shade-Loving Perennials
Time to get perennial with it!
Hostas and ferns are my go-to choices for creating a shaded oasis under those majestic cedar branches.
And let me tell you, they’re the perfect combo for low-maintenance gardening!
Hostas (Hosta spp.): These versatile perennials come in all shapes and sizes – from tiny to towering, from smooth leaves to variegated ones.
You can use them to create a shaded area or even as a natural mulch.
Ferns (Various species): Ah, ferns!
Those delicate, feathery plants that bring a touch of elegance to any garden.
They prefer partial shade and moist soil, making them the perfect choice for areas under cedar trees.
Option 3: Edible Plants
Now, who says you can’t eat what grows under your feet?
Wild strawberries and chives are my top picks for edible plants that’ll thrive in those shady conditions!
Wild Strawberries (Fragaria vesca): These low-growing, spreading strawberry varieties are perfect for creating a sweet and tangy snack right under your nose.
They prefer partial shade and well-draining soil – talk about a match made in heaven!
Chives (Allium schoenoprasum): Okay, I know what you’re thinking: “Chives?
Really?” But trust me, these perennials are the unsung heroes of the garden world!
They can be harvested year-round, tolerating partial shade and dry soil.
And let’s not forget those delicious, oniony flavors they add to your cooking!
Option 4: Ornamental Grasses
Last but certainly not least, we have ornamental grasses – the ultimate showstoppers under cedar trees!
Fountain grass and blue oat grass are my top picks for adding some serious drama to your garden.
Fountain Grass (Pennisetum setaceum): This clumping grass is a real head-turner with its unique, fountain-like shape.
It prefers full sun to partial shade – the perfect spot to catch some rays!
Blue Oat Grass (Helictotrichon sempervirens): And then there’s blue oat grass – a drought-tolerant superstar that thrives in full sun.
Its blue-gray foliage and yellow flowers will have you swooning!
There you have it – my top picks for what to plant under cedar trees.
Whether you’re looking for low-maintenance ground covers, shade-loving perennials, edible plants, or ornamental grasses, I’ve got you covered!
Now, go forth and get planting!
Final Thoughts
As I reflect on the best options for planting under cedar trees, I’m reminded of the countless benefits these majestic trees provide.
From providing shade to enriching soil, and even offering natural pest control – it’s no wonder why they’re a popular choice for gardeners and nature lovers alike.
By choosing low-maintenance ground covers like creeping thyme or vinca minor, shade-loving perennials like hostas or ferns, edible plants like wild strawberries or chives, or ornamental grasses like fountain grass or blue oat grass, you can create a thriving and diverse garden that’s perfect for any climate.
Whether you’re looking to reduce your reliance on pesticides, create a shaded area for pets, or simply add some visual interest to your outdoor space, there’s an option under the cedar tree for everyone.