• Oak trees are long-lived and have an interesting growth pattern.old oak tree image by Vortigern69 from Fotolia.com
  
  

Take Advantage of the Shade

• Plant-shade loving perennials under your oak tree. Plants, such as hosta, thrive under the shade of your oak tree in Florida. Other perennials for consideration include astible, bergenia and ferns.
  
  

Brighten Up Your Winter Garden.

• Although some Florida oak trees are semievergreen, the branches tend to have fewer leaves in the winter, letting more light through. Many are deciduous, losing all their leaves. Take advantage of this by planting winter blooming plants under your oak tree. Flowers such as hellebores, wintersweet or varieties of viburnum will brighten up your winter garden.
  
  

Bottom Line

• Oak trees are long-lived, stunning trees. Planting under them adds to their appeal and is based on the needs of the gardener. When gardening under any tree, provide plenty of water for both the plant and the tree. Water deeply to assure moisture is getting to your tree's roots.