Area under Conifer / Fir trees.

I am wondering whether anyone in this forum can suggest any plants that may grow beneath a couple of conifer / Fir trees. I have planted a few shrubs but they have all died off.
Would the fact that the leaves drop from the trees have any consequence on the shrubs i've previously planted, dying off? Acidity of soil etc? I have cut quite a few of the lower branches from these trees to let in more light, but as they are my next door neighbours, that is the most I can do.

 

We have found that laurel works quite well.

John

 

My neighbour underplanted his with hebe's two years ago that I grew from cuttings. They are doing very well.

 

Hi Pip,

I too have an area shaded by conifers that i'm not sure what to do with.


Trouble is, as you can see, the conifer leaves contain a growth inhibitor that only allows other conifers to grow:DOH:

 

Tongue in cheek! The area looks perfect for one of those swinging seats Ziggy. You could sit there with the other half and a cup of tea watching your plot grow.

 

Plenty suggestions if you look at this link Pip. >

Conifer companion plants - Conifers Forum - GardenWeb

 

:D I'd rather stick pins in my buttocks than sit with evil witch, but I like the idea of sitting there watching the wheels going round and round

 

Ahhhh......that's not very nice Ziggy!

 

I did have some sucess with loads of cyclamen...that was untill i got chickens !!!!!

 

Pachysandra terminalis - grows anywhere is semi to deep shade ground hugging spreading plant pretty tolerant of most soils, downside it's a bit bland =]

 

I agree with Aesculus, Pachysandra will do the job. Perhaps, also, Japanese Azalaeas.