planting under old growth fir tree - Ask Extension
Hi, I'm wanting to plant under an enormous old growth Douglas Fir tree that is in my front yard. I am planning to keep things a good distance from the...
Knowledgebase
planting under old growth fir tree #874361
Asked June 24, 2024, 12:30 AM EDT
Hi, I'm wanting to plant under an enormous old growth Douglas Fir tree that is in my front yard. I am planning to keep things a good distance from the trunk and place targeted drip irrigation to each of the plants that go in that bed. I'm wanting to make sure that its safe for the fir tree to have plantings placed under its canopy and if the introduction of additional water at the roots zone of the tree won't cause a problem. I'm thinking additional water for the tree would be welcomed and caution when planting smaller natives as to not disturb the fir roots will ensure the tree will continue to thrive, but I wanted to double check.
Clackamas County Oregon
Expert Response
Hi Yvette and thanks for your question about planting under your old growth Douglas fir tree. I'm assuming the tree is pruned up a bit, as my old fir has branches reaching to the ground and nothing would grow under that much shade and needle drop.
I would recommend some native flowers that could be a low ground cover and not require too much more water than the fir itself, which should be watered at least once a month with a slow drip during our newly dry and hot summers. I'll attach a booklet for selecting native flowers. The first part is trees and shrubs, but looking toward the back there are many beautiful flowers and smaller shrubs that would work. Look at the symbols for how much sun and water they need and choose those that can tolerate shade and don't need too much water.
Douglas firs can actually get too much water on their roots which can cause a root rot and kill the tree. Since we used to get a couple of good showers during July and August, that is what you are trying to duplicate with a watering event.
https://www.oregonmetro.gov/sites/default/files/2020/06/30/native-plants-for-Willamette-Valley-yards-booklet-high-res-20200107.pdf
There are several nurseries in the area that specialize in native plants, however we are not allowed to recommend specific places. You can probably find them in the internet.
Have fun trying some new plants out!
I would recommend some native flowers that could be a low ground cover and not require too much more water than the fir itself, which should be watered at least once a month with a slow drip during our newly dry and hot summers. I'll attach a booklet for selecting native flowers. The first part is trees and shrubs, but looking toward the back there are many beautiful flowers and smaller shrubs that would work. Look at the symbols for how much sun and water they need and choose those that can tolerate shade and don't need too much water.
Douglas firs can actually get too much water on their roots which can cause a root rot and kill the tree. Since we used to get a couple of good showers during July and August, that is what you are trying to duplicate with a watering event.
https://www.oregonmetro.gov/sites/default/files/2020/06/30/native-plants-for-Willamette-Valley-yards-booklet-high-res-20200107.pdf
There are several nurseries in the area that specialize in native plants, however we are not allowed to recommend specific places. You can probably find them in the internet.
Have fun trying some new plants out!
