The tree people would tell you that's not a good thing to do to the tree. I think you did a great job so far! Too close, not now. The coleus are nice and full in that picture.

Sherry

Sherry, thank you!

I think you're right about piling soil against the tree trunk - not good for the tree.

The photo of my plantings doesn't really do them justice - they look much better in person ;-)

Based on photos that have been shared here, I'm going to try some very dark Heucheras. It's hard to know what to add when the plants change colors during the season.

Ditto serendipity44's comments. Heucheras have been mainstays in my part shade beds for 10+ years. They're maintenance free and perform with minimal intervention from me.

If you've got healthy soil, the Heucheras can't really be planted too close together--the roots will duke it out and share what nutrients are available.

I have a half dozen mature oak trees and have planted hostas around the base of two of them--they sort of resemble petticoats each year. I love the look and the neighbors have commented favorably over the years. Each plant is no less than 20" from the tree trunk.

Gardenweed, thanks for the tip about the Heuchera roots competing for nutrients if they're planted too close together.

I'hoping my Heucheras will be maintenance-free also!

This is STUNNING! I have a huge Norway maple in my backyard that is surrounded by nothing but scrubby weeds and bare dirt - I wonder if I could get this to work there.

I hope RPW posts an update...

Some of the Heuheras had leaves throughout the winter. I'm anxiously watching for the others to break through the mulch. A few appeared after last week's sun and nourishing rain!

Must be patient. It's not even May yet... and after all, I'm in the northeast ;-)