7 Best Plants for Planting Under Trees 🌳🌲

7 Best Plants for Planting Under Trees. You love your trees, but you don't love that expanse below where the grass doesn't grow. There are many ground cover plants, perennials, and even small shrubs that grow well under trees. Pay attention to a few things. If it's a perennial or shrub, make sure it survives the winters. Finally, just because a plant tolerates dry conditions doesn't mean it doesn't have water. You will still need to water well the first year as the plants establish and during dry spells in subsequent seasons. Here are some of our favorite options for planting under trees.