How do evergreen trees affect the ability of flowers to grow and bloom in nearby beds?
by changing the PH level in the soil. Evergreens thrive best in acid soils, and the fallen needles further acidify the soil close to the trees. If your perennials are acid sensitive, it could cause your plants to wither. Further, the shade thrown by the dense foliage of the evergreens might also cause your plants problems. I think the simplest solution to your troubles might just be to add some soil admendment; to adjust the soil PH levels back to near normal. I think agricultural lime should make the soil more alkaline which you need to do; while garden sulphur would further acidify the soil. Careful how much you use; too much may cause trouble for the trees. If this doesn’t solve the problem, my I suggest relocating the perennials? Likely this would be easier than moving the trees, then you could plant something a little more acid tolerant. Azalea and rhododendrons love living close to evergreens – they like lots of shade and acid soils. It’s also a reaaly good excuse to enlarge your
