The ground around my two cherry blossom trees is mostly bare, and the roots spread across the surface, so edging or digging seems tricky. What are some simple ways to make the area look tidier without damaging the trees?
How can I make the bare ground around my cherry trees look better?
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A simple mulch bed is probably the easiest fix. Spread a light, even layer over the bare ground, but keep it clear of the trunk and root flare. No need to dig or build a raised ring around the roots.
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I’d make the bare patch look intentional with a broad, loose-edged mulch area, rather than trying to force a small circle of edging around all those roots. Keep the mower away from the exposed roots too, since repeated bumps can damage them.
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If you want something green or flowering, look for groundcovers or small plants suited to the shade and your local climate, and place them toward the outer edge of the canopy. Planting through a dense network of roots can mean a lot of digging, so mulch alone is a perfectly good option.
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CopperMarble:
A nearby native plant nursery may be able to suggest options for your area. I’d avoid planting right beside the trunk or cutting large roots to make room.