Every garden has its challenges, but planting under a well established tree is often the most baffling for gardeners. No consistent sun, compacted soil, a jigsaw of root systems competing for moisture and nutrients and it's often in a back, neglected corner of the yard.

Don't give up, it's all about building on what you've got and the right plants in the right place!

Step One - Soil

Remove any weeds and waste from under the tree

Lightly fork over the ground avoiding the tree roots

Place a layer of well rotted compost and manure over the area (avoid build up at the tree trunk)

As soil under trees is often water-repellent, apply a wetting agent and water in well

Step Two - Plants

Choose plants that are in smaller pots - it's much easier to fit them in between tree roots and in tight spaces

If it's a large space to fill - think groundcovers that will spread to cover the area 

Water in with a seaweed based product such as Seasol - it will help with transplant shock and get those new plant roots established faster

Mulch - not only will it help maintain the moisture in your newly planted area, but also 'finish off' the space. Top up as it breaks down over time.

Plant Choice

Consider the style of your existing gardens and choose plants that compliment that theme. Garden statues or ornaments, fairy gardens, seating or feature pots will enhance the ambience and livability of the space.

Our top choices...

• Bromeliad
• Clivia
• Dietes
• Ivy
• Ferns
• Fittonia
• Heuchera
• Impatiens
• Liriope
• Lomandra
• Native Violet
• Plectranthus
• Vinca
• Xanadu