Plant Around A Tree

You want to plant around a tree, as your grass won't grow. Every time you try to mow, you are tripping over the roots above the ground. Here is a simple solution for you.

Think about creating a circular bed around the tree. The size of the circle willdepend on how big of a planting area you want. A good size is four to five feet outfrom the trunk of the tree.

Time for your first step, attacking those nasty weeds. There are a number ofgood weed killers out in the market today. You can try and pull the weedsby hand. Most of the time you won't get the bottom roots and shoots...they will be back!One word of advice, don't put the weed killer down until you have a plan of what you want to plant.

Time to go to the nursery to get some ideas about what to put around the tree. Don't be overwhelmed! Most nurseries have professional people to assist you. Plant photos of perennial flowers for any style garden gives you some suggestions of flowers. Below are 3 little samples...

• Annual or perennial flowers
• Dwarf shrubs -
• Combination of flowers and shrubs

Another possibility is putting a ground cover around the tree. You will need a shade ground cover. Ajuga is great for shade and has tiny pink flowers. Some people like the idea of ivy. One problem with ivy is it spreads like wild fire. It will grow up your tree, eventually chocking the life out of it. If you use ivy, keep it trimmed.

Out of Control Ivy on Tree

Do you need safe chemicals to treat overgrown ivy or weeds? Many landscaping products and services are available just for you!

While you are at the nursery, find out about the top soil you will need. I recommend 4 to 6 inches of top soil around the tree. Most nurseries will load the top soil with a bobcat. The bobcat has a bucket to dump the soil into a truck. Buckets come in a variety of sizes. Most buckets dump 1 cubic yard. Four inches of top soil would be about one and a half scoops. Prices vary in different parts of the country and world. The price can range from $15.00 - $25.00 a scoop. Look for good quality top soil. What is in the mixture of soil? A good combination is dirt, sand, and saw dust. There usually is a delivery fee. If you own a truck you could pick it up but it will be a lot more work for you.

Once you have picked out your shrubs or flowers, and ordered your top soil, you are ready to start. Put the weed killer down, if you need one. Wait a week before you have the top soil delivered. Ask the delivery man to dump the top soil as close to the tree as he can. It will be easier on your back! Spread the top soil evenly around the tree. Position your plants or flowers the way you want them. Remember, a good design has an odd number. Bring on the mushroom compost and add with the soil. Finish itoff with mulch or pine straw.

Planting around a tree will add a little more spice to your yard.

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