Creeping Phlox Under Pine Trees

Growing Under Pine Trees

• Pine trees not only provide shady conditions that may prevent the growth of many plants, they also drop their needles which decompose and make the soil more acidic, according to the University of Texas at Austin's Ask Mr. Smarty Plants site. Some plants do not grow in acidic soil, so the choosing the right plants for growing in shady, acidic conditions is crucial. The acidic property can even spread to other areas not directly under the trees. Using a soil test will indicate the pH range of the soil under your pine trees. These are available at garden centers or through your local agricultural extension service.

About Creeping Phlox

• Creeping phlox, Phlox stolonifera, is a low-growing, spreading variety of the standard garden phlox. It prefers partial shade and moist, loose soil with moderate fertility. The plant forms a dense mat of green leaves and bears flowers on 3 to 12 inch stems. Flower colors come in a range of pink, lavender, scarlet, magenta and white. This plant prefers soil in an acidity range of 5.0 to 5.5, according to Rutgers University professor Stephanie Murphy. Creeping phlox is hardy in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 3 to 9.

Caring For Creeping Phlox

• Creeping phlox prefers the shade but thrives in sun if the soil is kept moist. Irrigate plants during dry periods to prevent browning. Trim creeping phlox back when it grows too long and fertilize with an all-purpose plant food annually, according to North Dakota State University horticulturalist Ron Smith. Because creeping phlox tends to grow in shade, it may develop leaf spot and other fungus problems that thrive in shady, moist conditions. Treat with an approved fungicide.

Adjusting Soil pH Under Pine Trees

• Though pine needles that fall from trees make a good mulch material, helping to hold moisture in the soil, a heavy buildup of needles can cause soil to become too acidic. The use of nitrogen fertilizers can also acidify soil. To bring soil under pine trees to the proper pH range for good growth, add garden lime gradually to the soil and re-test as you go.