Hey there, fellow plant lover! If you’re like me, you probably can’t resist adding just one more plant to your garden. But I’ve learned the hard way that not all plants are good neighbors—especially around tree roots. Lesson learned!
Some plants just don’t know how to share space, and they can end up competing with your trees in ways you wouldn’t expect. If you want to avoid that chaos, you’re in the right place.
So, grab your gardening gloves and let’s go through this list together. It’s all about keeping the peace in the garden and making sure every plant has room to thrive. Trust me, your trees will thank you—and so will your sanity!
1. Bamboo
Ah, bamboo—the grass that thinks it’s a tree! With its rapid growth and strong root system, bamboo can overrun tree roots quicker than you can say ‘panda snack.’
While its sleek look is tempting, planting bamboo near trees is like inviting a rowdy neighbor to a quiet neighborhood. You might end up with a territorial dispute that your trees didn’t sign up for.
If you crave bamboo’s charm, go for a barrier that keeps its roots in check. Otherwise, your trees might just wave a little white flag in surrender.
2. Mint
Mint might be the cool kid on the block, but it sure doesn’t play nice with others. Its roots spread faster than gossip in a small town. Though mint offers a refreshing aroma, its invasive nature can leave your trees gasping for space and nutrients.
Consider potting mint or placing it in a contained area. That way, you can enjoy its zest without compromising your trees’ wellbeing. Keep it tamed, and your trees will thank you.
3. English Ivy
This plant may give off an air of sophistication, but beneath that lies a garden rebel. It clings to tree roots, suffocating them over time. Its invasive tendencies are notorious, often outcompeting trees for moisture and nutrients.
It’s like a never-ending game of tug-of-war where the tree usually loses. If you love the look, try a trellis or pergola far from your trees. Otherwise, you might be in trouble!
4. Wisteria
Wisteria is the drama queen of the plant world. But the roots are spelled trouble. Its roots expand aggressively, crowding out tree roots and stealing nutrients. If it wraps around your trees, it might just squeeze the life out of them.
Admire its beauty from a distance by growing it on a sturdy trellis or pergola. This way, it won’t drag your trees into an unwanted situation.
5. Black Walnut
This tree is a bit of a bully in the plant world, releasing chemicals that can harm nearby plants. Its roots spread wide, claiming territory like crazy.
This tree’s self-centered nature can lead to nutrient battles with its neighbors, leaving other trees at a disadvantage. If you already have a black walnut, consider planting compatible species nearby.
Otherwise, it’s a ‘keep your distance’ kind of relationship, with a side of territorial drama.
6. Raspberry
Raspberry bushes might tempt you with sweet treats, but they’re also sneaky space invaders. Their canes and roots spread fast, often at the expense of tree roots.
While having snacks on hand is great, raspberries’ territorial nature can lead to root clashes. Plant them a safe distance away or in a raised bed to enjoy fruit without compromising your trees’ health.
Keep them in their own corner, and all will be berry well.
7. Fennel
Fennel might seem harmless with its leaves, but don’t be fooled. It’s a bit of a loner and doesn’t play well with others.
Its allelopathic nature means it releases chemicals that inhibit the growth of surrounding plants, including tree roots.
If you’re a fennel fan, plant it in its own space or container. That way, you can admire its unique flavor without turning your garden into a one-plant show.
8. Clematis
This one is a sneaky partner for trees. Its roots can tangle with tree roots, creating a situation that neither appreciates.
While the flowers are a sight to behold, the competition underground can lead to tree stress. I recommend growing clematis on a trellis or fence, far from tree roots.
This way, you can enjoy its beauty and your trees will appreciate the breathing room.
9. Grapevine
Grapevines are like party animals at a garden gathering, always looking to mingle. However, their roots can entwine with tree roots, leading to horticultural trouble.
While grapes are delicious, the competition for water and nutrients can leave trees feeling a bit parched. To avoid a fruitless friendship, plant grapevines separately or on a trellis.
Good idea, right?
10. Hops
These can crash your garden if too close to trees. Their roots and climbing habits can choke tree roots over time.
While hops are great for brewing, their aggressive growth can spell trouble for trees. Keep hops on their own trellis, far from tree roots.
And finally, you can brew your beer without brewing up trouble in the garden. Cheers to happy trees and hoppy times!
11. Morning Glory
Beneath the surface, this plant is a sneaky competitor. Its roots can entangle with tree roots, leading to a tangled mess.
Though its blooms are cheerful, the underground competition can stress out trees. Plant morning glory where it can climb freely, away from trees.
This way, you can enjoy the morning view without causing horticultural headaches. Your trees will appreciate the thoughtful spacing.
12. Periwinkle
Periwinkle may seem innocent with its flowers, but it’s a ground cover with ambitions. Its roots spread rapidly, often overwhelming tree roots in the process.
It can smother tree roots and limit their access to nutrients. If you like periwinkle, give it a dedicated space away from trees.
It’s all about respectful distancing. Am I right?
13. Virginia Creeper
The life of the autumn party. The underground scramble can leave trees struggling for resources. While the fall display is spectacular, the competition below is less charming.
Go for a trellis or wall to showcase its beauty without creating a root rivalry. Now, your trees can enjoy their space without the creeper’s uninvited advances.
So, Virginia Creeper is a beauty that you have to keep an eye on!
14. Horseradish
Great for your dishes, but not so kind to tree roots. Its deep roots can monopolize soil nutrients, leaving trees in the dust.
While it spices up meals, its presence in the garden can lead to nutrient battles. Plant horseradish in a container or separate area to enjoy its kick without kicking your trees out of their comfort zone.
It’s a flavorful compromise that keeps everyone happy.
15. Butterfly Bush
The butterfly bush is a pollinator’s paradise, but its roots can be a tree’s nightmare. The dense root system competes with tree roots for water and space.
While butterflies love it, trees might not share the sentiment if their roots get crowded. Plant the butterfly bush where it can bask in sunlight without overshadowing trees.
This way, butterflies can enjoy themselves, and trees can breathe easily. It’s a win-win kind of situation.
16. Lilac
The sweethearts of spring. But their roots can be overbearing for trees. The underground competition can lead to stress for trees seeking space and nutrients.
While their fragrance is beautiful, the territorial roots can create tension in a mixed planting. Give lilacs their own space or a designated area in the garden.
You can enjoy their scent without challenging your trees. It’s all about harmonious coexistence.
17. Cherry Laurel
Cherry laurel is an evergreen beauty, but its roots are relentless. They spread fast, creating a competitive environment for tree roots.
While it provides year-round greenery, the root rivalry can leave trees struggling for resources. Plant cherry laurel away from tree roots to let both thrive independently.
Both can shine in their respective spaces. Isn’t that amazing?
18. Privet
This plant has roots that can invade tree territory. The root system competes for nutrients, leaving trees in a tight spot. While it offers excellent screening, the underground battle can stress trees.
Position privet at a distance from trees to maintain peace in the garden.
Finally, you can enjoy privacy without creating a root feud. Remember, balance is the key!
19. Quaking Aspen
These roots have a mind of their own. They can spread rapidly, causing competition for nutrients. While the leaves are a treat, the underground dynamics are less friendly.
Place quaking aspen where its roots can roam freely without crossing paths with trees. This way, both can flourish without stepping on each other’s toes.
Keep this in mind and thank me later!
20. Sumac
Sumac adds a touch of color to the landscape, but its roots can be a trouble for trees. They spread aggressively, competing with tree roots for space and nutrients.
While the fall display is beautiful, the root competition can create tension. Give sumac its own area to show its beauty without interrupting your trees’ domain.
If you are looking for a colorful compromise, this might be the solution!
21. Ajuga
This plant may look innocent with its low profile, but it’s a ground cover with attitude. Its roots spread quickly, often crowding out tree roots in their quest for dominance.
While it creates a carpet of color, trees might feel the pressure if their roots get tangled. Allow ajuga to flourish in a separate area, away from tree roots.
I think that it’s all about finding the right balance!
22. Vinca
These roots can compete fiercely with tree roots. The rapid spread can create a tussle for space and nutrients underground.
While it adds color to the garden floor, trees might not appreciate it. Set aside a separate area for vinca to thrive without challenging tree roots.
For me it’s a peaceful coexistence in the garden.
23. Boxwood
I’m introducing a classic choice for hedges. But its roots are relentless competitors. The dense root system can clash with tree roots for valuable nutrients and space.
While it adds structure to the garden, trees might suffer if their roots are crowded. Plant boxwood at a safe distance from trees to keep the peace.
Then you can enjoy its formal look without compromising your trees’ wellbeing. Harmony? You’ve got it!
24. Japanese Knotweed
This one is famous for its relentless roots. They spread aggressively, often outcompeting tree roots for space and resources.
While it might look unassuming, the underground rivalry can be intense. Avoid planting Japanese knotweed near trees to prevent a botanical battle.
This way, you can maintain harmony in your garden without having invasive chaos. Choose your plant allies wisely!
25. Chives
Chives may add flavor to your dishes, but their roots can spice up competition with tree roots. The rapid spread can lead to a battle for nutrients underground.
While tasty in the kitchen, chives might not be the best tree companions. Consider planting chives in a contained area or pot to enjoy their flavor without putting trees in a tight spot.
It’s a flavorful solution that keeps everyone content. Happy cooking and happy trees!