What Plants Can Grow Under Black Walnut Trees?
Black walnut trees excrete a chemical substance called juglone. This chemical will kill or stunt the growth of many plants. Juglone is found mainly in the roots of a black walnut tree. The root system can extend 30 feet beyond the trunk of the tree, so it is important to know the varieties of plants that will thrive in this situation. Soil under black walnuts tends to be alkaline, with the pH often 0 .7 points higher than beyond the roots. Groundcovers Kentucky bluegrass grows well under black walnut trees. Ribbon grass, an ornamental variety of grass often does well, although, according to “Living the Country Life” magazine, ribbon grass does not grow as tall under black walnut trees as it would in other locations. Stunted growth is a possibility for plants growing under any tree. Be sure to check the sunlight requirements of any plant you decide to grow under a black walnut. Shade-loving sweet woodruff or pachysandra will cover the area under a black walnut tree. Perennials Choose da
