What to grow at base of trees?

[sleggy]

Hi all, pretty new to this forum and this growing lark, although am totally addicted. Would muchly like to quit job and work the plot full-time, if only!!!

We do seem to have ended up with a pretty tricky plot - hasn't been properly worked for over 5 years and is the corner plot. Just over the south boundary of our plot are some massive trees, and holly etc underneath on the outside of the fence. We're presuming there's not much that would grow on that side as reckon the trees and bushes would be taking up all the nutrients, and of course it's also very shady.

I have however recently been thinking, well something MUST like those growing conditions? And not just nettles and brambles!!!!

Any suggestions?

Thanks,
Sleggy

[digthatchick]

Try Spinach or lettuce they usually do well in shade - or Rhubarb of course.

[purplekat]

If you're willing to be a bit experimental - google 'permaculture' or 'forest gardens' and you should come up with some ideas - not likely to be your traditional veg or fruit though

[Alice]

Welcome to the Vine Sleggy.
Not much will grow in the dry shade of trees But you could grow in containers there as long as you are prepared to water them.
If you just want to make a pretty corner then Montbretia will grow well in such poor conditions. I'm sure you'll get other suggestions. Good luck.

[Victoria26]

Chives planted around the base of fruit trees will discourage insects from climbing the trunk