Shady Secrets: Planting Privacy Shrubs Under Trees in Maryland

Creating a Private Oasis: Planting Shrubs Under Trees in Maryland (Zone 7b)

Transforming your backyard into a private sanctuary is a common desire among homeowners. The challenge, however, often lies in balancing aesthetics, functionality, and the existing landscape. This article explores the possibilities of planting privacy shrubs beneath trees in Maryland (Zone 7b), addressing the common concerns and offering practical advice for success. We will cover the best shrub options, planting considerations, and alternative ground cover choices to create a thriving, private outdoor space.

The Appeal of Privacy Shrubs

Privacy shrubs serve multiple purposes. They provide a visual barrier from neighbors and surrounding areas, creating a sense of seclusion and intimacy. They can also buffer noise, reduce wind, and add an element of natural beauty to your property. Evergreen shrubs are particularly desirable for year-round privacy, while deciduous options can offer seasonal changes and visual interest.

The Challenge of Planting Under Trees

Planting shrubs under existing trees presents several challenges. Trees have established root systems that can compete with new plantings for water, nutrients, and sunlight. The dense shade cast by the trees can also limit the amount of sunlight available to the shrubs, which is crucial for photosynthesis. Additionally, the tree’s canopy can intercept rainfall, reducing the amount of water that reaches the shrub’s roots.

Selecting the Right Shrubs

Choosing the right shrubs is crucial for success. Consider the following factors:

• Sunlight: Assess the amount of sunlight the planting area receives. Some shrubs thrive in full shade, while others require partial or full sun. Understanding the light conditions will help you choose shrubs that can survive and flourish.
• Soil: The soil type and its ability to retain moisture will affect your shrub choices. Well-draining soil is essential to prevent root rot. The existing trees may have altered the soil pH or nutrient content, so it’s important to take this into account.
• Mature Size: Consider the mature size of the shrubs and how much space you have available. You want to achieve the desired level of privacy without overcrowding the area. Consider the width and height of the shrub at maturity.
• Evergreen vs. Deciduous: Decide whether you prefer evergreen shrubs for year-round privacy or deciduous shrubs for seasonal change. Evergreen shrubs, like cherry laurel or various types of hollies, offer continuous coverage, while deciduous shrubs, such as some varieties of viburnum, can provide beautiful fall color before losing their leaves.
• Deer Resistance: If deer are a problem in your area, choose deer-resistant shrubs to minimize the chances of them being eaten. Check with your local nursery for a list of deer-resistant varieties.

Recommended Shrub Varieties for Maryland (Zone 7b)

Here are some shrub suggestions that are well-suited for growing under trees in Maryland (Zone 7b), taking into account their tolerance for shade, competition, and other environmental factors:

• Cherry Laurel (Prunus laurocerasus): A popular choice for privacy, cherry laurel is an evergreen shrub with glossy, dark green leaves. It can tolerate shade and grows relatively quickly, making it an effective privacy screen. However, it is important to note that all parts of the cherry laurel plant are poisonous to humans and animals if ingested. Also, it requires regular pruning to maintain the desired shape and size. Consider the ‘Otto Luyken’ cultivar for a more compact option.
• American Holly (Ilex opaca): American holly is a native evergreen shrub with attractive, spiky leaves and red berries (on female plants). It is adaptable to various soil conditions and can tolerate partial shade. American Holly is also deer resistant. Consider the ‘Maryland Dwarf’ variety for a more compact growth habit. This choice will also provide winter interest and food for birds.
• Yew (Taxus spp.): Yews are versatile evergreen shrubs that can tolerate shade and various soil conditions. They come in different shapes and sizes, making them suitable for hedges or individual plantings. Keep in mind that all parts of yew are toxic, except for the fleshy red aril surrounding the seed. Ensure children and pets do not come in contact with this plant.
• Camellia (Camellia japonica or Camellia sasanqua): Camellias are prized for their beautiful, late-season blooms. They prefer partial shade and well-drained, acidic soil. Camellias offer a touch of elegance and color to the shaded garden. Choose varieties that are known to perform well in Maryland.
• Mountain Laurel (Kalmia latifolia): Although a bit pickier, Mountain Laurel is a Maryland native that does well in shaded areas with acidic soil. It offers beautiful spring blooms. It’s a slower grower, but its tolerance for shade makes it a good choice under taller trees.
• Rhododendron (Rhododendron spp.): Rhododendrons are another option that thrives in partial shade and acidic soil. They offer stunning spring blooms and come in various colors. Consider the native Catawba rhododendron (Rhododendron catawbiense).
• Inkberry Holly (Ilex glabra): Inkberry Holly is a native, evergreen shrub that is adaptable to a variety of soil conditions, including wet or dry soil. It tolerates shade and offers a neat, tidy appearance. It is also deer resistant.

Planting and Care Tips

• Soil Preparation: Before planting, amend the soil with organic matter, such as compost, to improve drainage and fertility. This will help the shrubs establish themselves. A soil test can help determine the soil’s pH and nutrient levels. Correct any deficiencies before planting.
• Root Zone: Avoid planting shrubs directly where the tree roots are most concentrated. You may need to gently work around the tree roots during planting, being careful not to damage them excessively. Dig the planting holes wider than the root balls of the shrubs to encourage root growth. Also, make sure the top of the root ball is level with the soil surface. If the trees have extensive surface roots, consider creating raised beds or planting in containers.
• Spacing: Space the shrubs according to their mature size, allowing enough room for growth. Consider the mature width and height of each plant.
• Watering: Water the shrubs regularly, especially during the first growing season, to help them establish their root systems. Deep, infrequent watering is better than shallow, frequent watering. Monitor soil moisture and adjust watering as needed.
• Mulching: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as shredded bark or wood chips, around the base of the shrubs. Mulch helps retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Keep the mulch away from the stems of the shrubs to prevent rot.
• Fertilizing: Fertilize the shrubs in spring with a slow-release fertilizer formulated for shrubs. Avoid over-fertilizing, as this can harm the plants.
• Pruning: Prune the shrubs as needed to maintain their shape and size, and to remove any dead or damaged branches. Consult pruning guides for the specific types of shrubs.
• Ongoing Monitoring: Monitor the shrubs for signs of stress, such as yellowing leaves, stunted growth, or pest infestations. Address any problems promptly to prevent them from becoming more serious.

Ground Cover Alternatives

While privacy shrubs are the primary focus, ground cover can also enhance the overall effect and provide additional benefits. Ground cover can help suppress weeds, retain soil moisture, and add visual interest to the planting area. Here are some shade-tolerant ground cover options:

• Ferns: Ferns are a classic choice for shade gardens. They come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and textures. Many ferns thrive in Maryland’s climate, including the Christmas fern (Polystichum acrostichoides), the hay-scented fern (Dennstaedtia punctilobula), and the ostrich fern (Matteuccia struthiopteris).
• Virginia Bluebells (Mertensia virginica): Virginia bluebells are native wildflowers that produce beautiful blue, bell-shaped flowers in spring. They thrive in moist, shaded areas and add a touch of color to the garden. They are a spring ephemeral, so they die back after flowering. They can fill in the space after the shrubs are established.
• Foamflower (Tiarella cordifolia): Foamflower is a shade-loving ground cover with attractive, heart-shaped leaves and delicate, foamy white flowers. It spreads readily and is ideal for filling in gaps between shrubs.
• Bugleweed (Ajuga reptans): Bugleweed is a fast-growing ground cover that forms a dense mat. It comes in various foliage colors, including green, purple, and variegated. Be aware that bugleweed can be invasive in some areas.
• Pachysandra (Pachysandra terminalis): Pachysandra is an evergreen ground cover with glossy green leaves. It is highly shade-tolerant and can create a dense, low-maintenance ground cover. It can also be invasive in some situations, so monitor its spread.

Combining Shrubs and Ground Cover

Consider combining shrubs and ground cover to create a layered, visually interesting landscape. Plant shrubs in the back to provide privacy and then use ground cover in front to fill in the space and create a seamless transition to the lawn or other parts of your yard. This creates a more natural and aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Final Thoughts

Creating a private oasis under trees in Maryland (Zone 7b) is achievable with careful planning and the right plant choices. By selecting shade-tolerant shrubs, preparing the soil properly, and providing adequate care, you can create a beautiful and functional privacy screen. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different combinations of shrubs and ground cover to achieve the desired look. Remember to consider the specific conditions of your backyard, and choose plants that are well-suited to the environment. With a little effort, you can transform your backyard into a private haven.