Planting around tree roots seems simple—until roots, shade, and poor soil ruin your garden plans.
Done right, planting around tree roots can enhance your landscape without harming the tree. You can plant around tree roots, but only shallow-rooted, shade-tolerant plants and careful techniques should be used. Digging deeply or piling soil can damage roots, stress the tree, and shorten its lifespan.
Why Tree Roots Are Sensitive to Planting
Tree roots aren’t just anchors—they absorb water, oxygen, and nutrients.
Most feeder roots sit in the top 6–12 inches of soil, exactly where gardeners want to dig.
Common mistakes include:
- Cutting roots thicker than 2 inches
- Adding soil over existing roots (soil suffocation)
- Planting thirsty plants that compete for moisture
How to Plant Around Tree Roots Without Causing Damage
1. Choose Shallow-Rooted Plants
Select plants that spread horizontally rather than digging deep.
Best options:
- Hostas
- Ferns
- Ajuga
- Heuchera (coral bells)
- Vinca minor
2. Dig Small, Strategic Holes
Never trench or excavate large areas.
Best practice:
- Dig only where natural gaps exist between roots
- Stop immediately if you hit a thick root
- Use hand tools instead of shovels
3. Use Mulch Instead of Soil Mounds
Adding soil over roots blocks oxygen flow.
Safe alternative:
- 2–3 inches of organic mulch
- Keep mulch 2 inches away from the trunk
Plants That Thrive Around Tree Roots
| Plant Type | Light Needs | Root Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Ferns | Shade | Very low |
| Hostas | Partial shade | Low |
| Groundcovers | Shade–partial sun | Minimal |
| Native woodland plants | Shade | Tree-friendly |
Plants You Should Avoid Near Tree Roots
- Roses
- Shrubs with deep taproots
- Annual flowers needing frequent watering
- Turf grass (high competition)
Pros & Cons of Planting Around Tree Roots
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Improves landscape aesthetics | Risk of root damage |
| Reduces soil erosion | Competition for water |
| Suppresses weeds naturally | Limited plant choices |
| Improves moisture retention | Poor soil quality |
Real-World Examples
Home Landscape:
A homeowner replaced grass under a mature oak with ferns and mulch. Result: healthier tree, lower maintenance, and no root damage.
Public Parks:
Many city parks use native groundcovers under trees instead of lawns to prevent root compaction and water stress.
FAQs (People Also Ask)
Can I dig around tree roots to plant flowers?
Yes, but only shallow digging between roots. Never cut large roots or dig deeply.
How close can I plant to a tree trunk?
Stay at least 12–18 inches away from the trunk to protect the root flare.
Is raised soil bad for trees?
Yes. Adding soil over roots reduces oxygen and can slowly kill a tree.
What’s better: mulch or plants under trees?
Mulch is safest. Plants work only if they are shallow-rooted and shade-tolerant.
Final Verdict
Planting around tree roots is safe only when done with restraint. Choose shallow-rooted, low-water plants, dig minimally, and rely on mulch where possible. Protecting the tree should always come before adding plants—because a healthy tree is the foundation of a successful landscape.