Question
Hi. I am looking for some creative and inexpensive solutions for filling the space under two large mature pine trees in our back yard. We have the triple problems of acidic soil, shade, and little root room. Any ground cover, such as bark or stones, would be covered in a short time with a new layer of pine needles. Anyone have any ideas?

Answer
Michelle,

The only plant I've known to be able to overcome the triple threat under a mature conifer is ivy.  I've had it succeed under 65 ft Douglas Firs and 40 ft Red Pines.

Straight ol' Hedera helix (English Ivy) is considered a noxious weed in my county, due to its ability to overcome just about anything.  But I use some slower growing (slower for ivy that is) varieties of Hh, like 'Baltica', 'Needlepoint', and 'Iceberg' in my landscape.  

Once established (2-3 years), I have to cut it back twice a year.   Not a big maintenance burden, so I use it, but it has to be kept in check.

Other than that, the only help I've got is an "I love duff" bumpersticker.

For what it's worth,
Mark in Portland