Bird's Nest Spruce Companion Plants: Enhancing Your Garden Landscape

Bird's nest spruce is a popular plant used in landscaping due to its unique, compact shape and vibrant green color. While it can stand alone as a statement piece, planting companion plants around this evergreen can enhance the overall aesthetic and create a more dynamic garden landscape. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best bird's nest spruce companion plants, their benefits, and how to incorporate them into your garden.

Benefits of Companion Planting with Bird's Nest Spruce

Companion planting is a gardening technique that involves growing different species of plants together in order to benefit each other. When it comes to bird's nest spruce, companion planting has several advantages:

- Attract pollinators: Certain companion plants can attract bees and other pollinators to your garden, which can improve the health and yield of nearby fruit trees and vegetables.
- Provide ground cover: By planting low-growing ground covers around your bird's nest spruce, you can help suppress weeds and retain moisture in the soil.
- Add color and texture: With the right selection of companion plants, you can create a more visually interesting garden landscape. By combining colors and textures, you can make your bird's nest spruce stand out even more.

Best Bird's Nest Spruce Companion Plants

Now that we've covered the benefits of companion planting with bird's nest spruce, let's take a look at some of the best companion plants to use:

1. Coral Bells

Coral bells (Heuchera spp.) are a great choice for bird's nest spruce companion planting because of their low-growing habit and colorful foliage. They come in a wide range of colors, from deep burgundy to bright lime green, which can create a striking contrast with the dark green of the spruce needles. Coral bells also attract hummingbirds, which can be a delightful addition to your garden.

How to Plant Coral Bells with Bird's Nest Spruce

Plant coral bells around the base of your bird's nest spruce, making sure to space them evenly. They prefer well-draining soil and partial shade, so try to find a location that gets some morning sun but is shaded in the afternoon. Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

2. Hostas

Hostas (Hosta spp.) are shade-loving plants that can thrive in the understory of your bird's nest spruce. They come in a variety of sizes and leaf shapes, from tiny creeping varieties to large-leaved specimens. Hostas also have lovely flowers that bloom in the summer, which can add an extra pop of color to your garden.

How to Plant Hostas with Bird's Nest Spruce

Plant hostas around the perimeter of your bird's nest spruce, leaving enough space for them to grow to their full size. They prefer slightly acidic soil that is rich in organic matter, so amend the soil with compost or peat moss before planting. Water regularly, especially during dry spells.

3. Japanese Maples

Japanese maples (Acer palmatum) are small trees or shrubs that are known for their stunning foliage. They come in a range of colors, from deep red to pale yellow, and can add a dramatic touch to your garden landscape. Japanese maples also do well in partial shade, which makes them a good fit for planting near bird's nest spruce.

How to Plant Japanese Maples with Bird's Nest Spruce

Plant Japanese maples near your bird's nest spruce, making sure to leave enough room for both plants to grow. They prefer well-draining soil that is slightly acidic, so amend the soil with compost or peat moss before planting. Water regularly, especially during hot, dry weather.

4. Ferns

Ferns (Polypodiopsida) are low-maintenance plants that do well in moist, shady conditions. They come in a variety of sizes and shapes, from delicate maidenhair ferns to robust ostrich ferns. Ferns can add a lush, tropical feel to your garden landscape and provide a nice contrast to the spiky needles of bird's nest spruce.

How to Plant Ferns with Bird's Nest Spruce

Plant ferns around the base of your bird's nest spruce, making sure to space them evenly. They prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter, so amend the soil with compost or peat moss before planting. Water regularly to keep the soil moist but not waterlogged.

5. Vinca Minor

Vinca minor, also known as periwinkle, is a low-growing ground cover that can help suppress weeds and retain moisture in the soil. It has glossy green leaves and small, purple-blue flowers that bloom in the spring. Vinca minor is also deer-resistant, which can be a plus if you live in an area with lots of wildlife.

How to Plant Vinca Minor with Bird's Nest Spruce

Plant vinca minor around the base of your bird's nest spruce, making sure to space them evenly. They prefer well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter, so amend the soil with compost or peat moss before planting. Water regularly to establish the plants, then reduce watering as they become more established.

FAQs

1. Can I plant bird's nest spruce in full sun?

Bird's nest spruce prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun in cooler climates. If you live in a hot, sunny area, it's best to plant your bird's nest spruce in a location that gets some afternoon shade.

2. How often should I water my bird's nest spruce?

Water your bird's nest spruce deeply once a week during dry spells. Make sure to water at the base of the tree rather than from above, as this can encourage disease.

3. What kind of soil does bird's nest spruce prefer?

Bird's nest spruce prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. Amend the soil with compost or peat moss before planting to improve drainage and add nutrients.

4. Can I prune my bird's nest spruce?

Yes, you can prune your bird's nest spruce to maintain its shape and size. Prune in early spring before new growth begins, using sharp pruning shears to make clean cuts.

5. Are there any pests or diseases that affect bird's nest spruce?

Bird's nest spruce can be susceptible to spider mites, scale insects, and needle cast fungus. Keeping your tree healthy with proper watering and pruning can help prevent these issues. If you notice signs of pest or disease infestation, consult with a local nursery or arborist for treatment options.



Incorporating companion plants into your garden landscape can enhance the beauty and health of your bird's nest spruce. By selecting the right plants and planting them in a strategic manner, you can create a more visually interesting and dynamic garden space. Remember to provide proper care and maintenance for all of your plants, including regular watering and pruning, to ensure their long-term health and vitality.