What Annuals Or Perrennials Can Be Planted Under Pine Trees

Question From: K. Duncan - Troy, Michigan, United States
Q: Help--what can I plant under pines (lower branches are 4 feet off the ground), that have some color? Perennials? Annuals?

A: Competition with the tree roots for water and lack of sun make it almost impossilble to grow flowers or any plants under large pines. You can try shade loving annual in containers. Google shade loving annuals and perennials for suggestions. Perennials will not overwinter in containers so treat them as annuals or put them in the ground in fall. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy