How to Transform the Space Under Your Trees With Beautiful Landscaping

I used to ignore the patch of ground beneath my old maple tree. No matter how often I raked, it stayed bare, weedy, and lifeless—a dead zone in an otherwise lively yard. 

One spring, on a whim, I planted a few shade-loving hostas and spread fresh mulch around the base. To my surprise, that forgotten corner instantly became one of the prettiest spots in my garden.

That’s when I realized something: the space under trees doesn’t have to be wasted. With the right plants, textures, and a few smart design choices, it can transform into a feature that ties the whole yard together.

In this guide, I’ll share how to work with shade, choose the right plants, add color, and even incorporate hardscaping and lighting to make the space under your trees look intentional and inviting. 

By the end, you’ll see how to turn those neglected patches into natural showpieces that feel like part of your outdoor living space.

So let’s begin.

Work With Shade, Don’t Fight It

The first rule of landscaping under trees is to embrace the shade. 

Many plants fail here because they’re battling both limited sunlight and root competition. Instead of fighting, lean into plants that actually like those conditions. 

Southern Living highlights shade-tolerant options like hostas, astilbe, and ferns as low-maintenance heroes for dimmer corners.

Action step: Watch how sunlight moves under your tree throughout the day. Is it dappled shade, partial shade, or deep shade? Knowing this will help you pick plants that won’t just survive but thrive.

And once you understand the light, it’s time to get strategic with what you plant.

Choose the Right Plants for Under-Tree Success

The right plants make all the difference. Hostas, astilbe, liriope, and heuchera are all shade-loving perennials that bring lush texture and seasonal interest. 

Experts at Hicks Nurseries note that these plants not only thrive under tree canopies but also add layers of color that break up otherwise dark spaces.

I once ringed my maple tree with just three hostas, and suddenly the whole area looked deliberate instead of neglected.

Small-space twist: Even if you don’t have room for a full planting bed, a single circle of hardy perennials around the trunk can soften the base of the tree.

And for those tricky spots where roots make planting difficult, groundcovers can do the heavy lifting.

Add Groundcovers to Replace Bare Soil

Bare soil under trees doesn’t just look dull—it invites weeds and erosion. 

Groundcovers are the solution. Plants like vinca, creeping thyme, and sweet woodruff create a green carpet that’s easy to maintain. 

Experts at Iowa State Extension explain that groundcovers do double duty—adding greenery while keeping soil cool and stable.

Action step: Plant groundcovers in staggered clusters rather than straight lines. Over time, they’ll spread into a natural-looking mat that covers soil and reduces upkeep.

Which would you try first—groundcovers or containers?

Once the ground is covered, you’ll want to give the space a polished finish with mulch.

Create Mulched Beds for Simplicity

Mulch is one of the easiest ways to tidy up under-tree areas.

It insulates roots, suppresses weeds, and makes the space look intentional. 

Davey Tree experts say mulching can even double tree growth by reducing stress on the roots and conserving moisture.

Lifestyle benefit: Mulch doesn’t just protect roots—it frames your tree like a natural rug, making the whole yard feel more polished. Even a narrow two-foot mulch ring instantly makes a small tree look landscaped without crowding your yard.

Action step: Spread a two- to three-inch layer of organic mulch around the tree, keeping it a few inches away from the trunk to prevent rot.

A clean mulched ring creates the perfect backdrop for adding more structure through hardscaping.

Incorporate Hardscaping for Function and Style

Hardscaping turns an ordinary under-tree spot into a designed feature. 

Stone edging, brick borders, or gravel rings add definition, while a small bench can make the area functional. 

My Organic Turf suggests that edging not only looks attractive but also keeps mulch neatly in place.

Small-space twist: If you’re short on yard space, a simple stone border can double as casual seating around the tree.

And if tree roots make planting difficult, containers can save the day.

Add Pops of Color With Containers

Tree roots can make digging frustrating, but that doesn’t mean you can’t add color. Containers or decorative urns let you bring in blooms without disturbing roots. 

Gardening Know How recommends small to medium containers under trees for seasonal plants like bulbs, annuals, or mums.

I love swapping containers seasonally—daffodils in spring, petunias in summer, and mums in the fall keep the space fresh without a big investment.

Action step: Group three containers of different heights for a layered, eye-catching effect.

And if you want the area to feel more like a garden than a collection of pots, layering plants by height creates that natural, lush look.

Layer With Height and Texture

A mix of groundcovers, mid-height perennials, and small shrubs turns a flat under-tree spot into a tiered garden bed. 

Experts suggest that layering plants around trees creates the look of a woodland garden and makes the space feel intentional.

Action step: Plant in odd numbers (groups of three or five) for a more organic, natural feel.

Lifestyle benefit: Even in small yards, layering creates depth—making the space feel larger and more inviting.

And when the sun goes down, lighting ensures your work still shines.

Consider Lighting for Evening Charm

Why let your landscaping disappear at night? 

Uplighting can highlight tree trunks and branches, while string lights draped above or lanterns at the base create ambiance. 

Designers at Limelight Outdoor Lighting note that uplights are especially effective at showcasing the dramatic shape of mature trees.

Lifestyle benefit: The glow of uplights on a warm evening can make even a small backyard feel like a resort. A single solar uplight can transform a tiny patio tree into a nighttime focal point.

Action step: Place two solar uplights on either side of the trunk for instant drama.

Lighting not only enhances beauty but also extends the use of your outdoor space well past sunset. And if you really want to maximize the space, think seasonally.

Seasonal and Functional Twists

The beauty of under-tree landscaping is that it changes with the seasons. In fall, let the leaves act as natural mulch. 

In spring, plant bulbs for early bursts of color. Herbs like mint or oregano can double as groundcover and give off a fresh fragrance when brushed against. 

The Spruce points out that fall mulching also insulates soil and helps plants bounce back stronger in spring.

Functional payoff: A landscaped base around your tree also means less mowing and edging headaches—a win for both beauty and maintenance.

FAQs About Landscaping Under Trees

What is the easiest way to landscape under a tree?

Simple mulch ring. It immediately transforms the area into a polished one, shields the roots and leaves you with a clean surface to add plants or edging at a later stage.

Can I plant flowers directly under a tree?

Yes, but select shade tolerant plants such as hostas, astilbe or ferns. Do not overdig–plant in a shallow hole, or in containers to add splashes of colour.

How wide should the mulch ring around a tree be?

Professionals recommend extending the mulch as far as the drip line of the tree will allow, though even a two-foot circle will give your yard a landscaped appearance without occupying it.

Do groundcovers compete with tree roots?

Not usually. Shade-loving groundcovers such as vinca or sweet woodruff root freely across the surface and therefore they do not conflict with trees.

Is landscaping under trees bad for the tree itself?

No–if done carefully. Do not stack mulch around the trunk (“volcano mulching”) and use shallow root plants only. When it is properly done, under-tree landscaping does just the opposite of harming the roots of the tree; it makes them healthier.

How do I add lighting without harming the tree?

The presence of solar uplights or low-voltage LED fixtures in the soil is safe and helpful. Care should be taken not to drill lights or screws into the trunk, which can be damaged.

Conclusion – Turning Dead Zones Into Destinations

For years, I believed the space under my trees was only a lost cause–untidy, full of roots and impossible to dress up.

However, after I had planted a few shade-loving plants, a little mulch and a light or two, that neglected corner became one of my favorite places in the yard.

The fact is that under-tree spaces are not a dead zone.

They can become the friendliest and easiest-to-maintain elements of your landscape with the appropriate groundcovers, hardscaping or even a pair of containers.

The question is, therefore, would you begin with a plain mulch ring, or would you give it the full treatment and have layered plants and uplights?

In any case, it is one of the simplest methods to provide a garden with additional beauty, character, and charm–and yet you do not have to work more.