Gentlemen,
I need a miracle..........A 60 yr old black walnut tree is adjacent to our foundation planting and nothing seems to grow. I am desperate for a list of common names of any trees or shrubs that can be successfully planted within the toxic rootzone of this tree. Sure would appreciate any help.
Thank you,
Shirley Crispens (Sewickley, PA)
Black Walnut Tree -Solution for shrubs and tree planting
Here are some--it's a publication from Ohio State so I assume most of the same plants should do fine in your area (although I'm not sure if they limited their observations to plants in the Ohio area or if it's a more general list) http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/1000/1148.html
Our neighbors have 2 black walnut trees that are at least as old as yours if not older and they are right on our property line. The mess that the nuts create because they always fall on our property is a constant source of irritation to my GH. After they fall ( they are starting to as we speak) it takes us at least an hour to rake and clean up (always using plastic gloves as the stain goes right through cotton ones). Grass does not grow well in that area. However what has worked out real well for us are Hostas. I believe they are of the "Sum and Substance" variety, not 100% sure though as they were growing here when we moved in 20+ yrs ago. Lilac also co-exist along with ivy and vinca. The neighbors have ferns, tulips, pachysandra and forsynthias growing within 10 feet of the trees. ecrane3 gave you a good website to check out. I've used it many times. Good luck!
I have a black walnut on my property in upstate NY, and have planted daylilies and hostas that have flourished. Heucheras have also done well for me, as have ferns and lily-of-the-valley (if you don't mind its invasive nature). This spring I also planted some polemonium, which were beautiful through their blooming season, but we shall see if they come up again next year.
A tip for searching the web for other resources: look for plants that are juglone-resistant. Juglone is the chemical that black walnuts secrete to keep other plants from using their resources.
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