HI,
I understand your frustration with that maple. I have a lot of trouble getting things to grow under mine. One thing I found to be helpful is to add soil around the base of the tree to sustain the plants. Somewhere I read that there can be a problem with adding to much and somehow it can kill the tree. I have added 6 inches of amended soil around a lindenwood tree but all I could get to grow was periwinkle. Maple trees send out small roots that suck all the water out of the ground. Maybe we can both be enightened with someone elses suggestions. Do you know of any good tree mail order companies?
Vic

I would try and stick with plants that do not need alot of moisture..Geranium macrorrhizum. Epimedium. Christmas ferns, would do well. Putting alot of soil around the roots will not do much good...it will continue to wash away and not good for the tree. OR..remove the tree? LOL

For an outside-the-box solution, how about pots and planters with plants that need more moisture? On a pedestal, they could also add vertical interest.

I live in a apartment 2nd story breezeway deck... would appreciatte any of u pro green thumbs to help suggest what plants or flowers or anything! teehee that will grow in the shade, on this deck. I have a wrought iron rail also to tie plantsup to.. so any help i will take note! thanks!

One thing I did in an area with root issues, is start with very small plants. They are easier to work into between roots. When you water do not water only the plants. Water the entire area so the tree doesn't feel compelled to send more roots to the plants.

nikkikki, Are you talking perennials or annual, what zone, climate? Your best bet when starting out is find a nice nursery garden center and see what they have to offer. Ask the people who work there. I just bought my annual two flats of coleus,impatients,and begonias.