planting under Norfolk pines

[DTisme]

So I have this shade garden under 3 large Norfolk pines. Most stuff does ok under there for a while, but maybe a year later it starts to get unhappy. I'm guessing the fallen debris from the pines are affecting PH levels of the soil, plus maybe the plants don't get as much rain as they would elsehere. Not sure here. Does anyone have a successful shade garden under their pines, and what do you recommend for the area - soil amendments, watering issues, etc. Also, any particular plants that like areas like this?

[allensylves]

The best cure I found was to cut the Norfolk pines down! I am trying some spiral gingers (Costus) under the remaining trees and will see how that goes.

Allen
Finally in HPP

[DTisme]

Yeah, but they DO provide some nice shade, so we're keeping for now. I think keeping it clear of the pine "needles" (they're more like fingers, yeah?) will help. Have also noticed that they stop even a heavy rain from getting to the plants. {{Sigh}}

[Rene Siracusa]

Instead of planting under them, you might want to consider capitalizing on the shade and hang a hammock, add some outdoor furniture to the area, and maybe enhance with large planters that you can rotate if the plants look unhappy.

[Rene Siracusa]

Forgot to mention: you could hang some hanging baskets of ferns and colorful impatiens and begonias from the lower branches to add color. They can handle the shade well, but can be easily moved if need be. Don't forget wind chimes...

[allensylves]

I think Rene has the right idea. The planters should probably be raised a few inches off the ground to keep the tree roots out.
Unfortunately our Norfolk 'hedge' is right along the street, so it is not a desirable place for a hammock, etc.

Allen
Finally in HPP

[DTisme]

I like the idea of the planters - even potted plants under there would look nice. Already planted quite a bit, but like the idea of movable stuff. hanging plants good, too - great ideas - thanks.

[bananahead]

Cook Island Pines
Most if not all Norfolk Island Pines in Hawaii are really Cook Island Pines..... they were mis-identified many years ago, and are still often sold as "Norfolk Pines"

save our indigenous and endemic Hawaiian Plants... learn about them, grow them, and plant them on your property, ....instead of all that invasive non-native garbage I see in most yards... aloha