Shade under large trees problem

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Shade under large trees problem

by Sandy
(Penn Valley PA)

We have a large Sugar Maple behind the house and large Holly trees on the side. The whole area is in nearly total shade so no grass can grow there. We use the area to access the back yard from the front so whatever I put there has to be able to bear lawnmowers on it. The earth has become packed and dry for years. Any ideas what I can do?

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Shade under large trees problem

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Jul 18, 2011

Shade Under Large Trees Problem
by: Kimberly

Hi Sandy, Kimberly here from landscape solutions for you. Thank you for asking the question on your problem with the shade area and no grass growing.

I am not sure exactly how large the area is, but here are a few suggestions.

Shaded areas can be real tough to grow grass. One idea is to make this an actual defined pathway or walkway. You can use stepping stones, or other material. You can also make it a natural pathway by giving it a defined nature look. Either of these can be done with some prep work. Even though the ground is hard, if possible, you should be able to work it with a tiller. If you consider stepping stones, and idea is to plant some Thyme or Sweet Woodruff inbetween the stepping stones. This will give your area a nice natural look also.

You can also consider planting a ground cover such as Thyme, Sweet Woodruff, or Ajuga. All these will do well in the shade. The one thing you need to be aware of is they will spread, so you might want to consider some type of border. Any small growing shade ground cover will work.

I hope this helps some and let us know what you decide. Thanks again Sandy for asking the question here and best of luck. Have a great evening.
Kimberly

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