I have cedar hedges that line my sides of property probably over 30 years old. They stand easily 20ft high. On one side they go right down to the ground but on the other side (pictured) they have been cut almost 4ft from the ground. My neighbors cut their side years ago and we just cut our side to match as the bottoms were not doing well. Now this has made privacy an issue and it’s ugly under there. What can I plant ? My yard consists of lots of hostas, clematis, hydrangeas, climbing hydrangeas and boxwood. Wouldn’t mind ferns or other full plants. We have full sun almost all day back here but this side is definitely more shaded. I have noticed the exposed side on the neighbors half does let in some sun for at least 4 hours under there. Any advice would be appreciated.
The biggest challenge you face in trying to fill in the gaps caused by limbing up the cedars is lack of space. Whatever you choose to plant in this area, under the drip line of the hedge, will compete with the cedar for water and nutrients from the soil.
Some ideas for what might be the best options here are outlined in both:
What ferns can grown under trees
Some further shrubs that might be suitable are Oakleaf Hydrangea, Physocarpus sp (ninebark), or Rhododendrons but these may need regular pruning to keep them small enough for the space. Herbaceous perennials such as Solomon’s Seal, Japanese Anemones, Euphorbia or Epimedium may also be a good option.
Be aware that you will disturb the roots of the cedar trees if you try to plant within the root spread so, to avoid damaging the roots, consider starting with shrubs and perennials with a smaller root ball, from a smaller pot and allow the plants to grow into the space.
Thank you for your question and happy spring planting.