Question
Hi there, thanks for looking at my questions.
I have an area that I need to landscape a little bit.

It is mostly under a large tree. I have cut some brances away to allow some sun in, but for the most part it is a 50/50 sun/shade area.

I also have a bed under pine trees, which probably gets a little less sun.  

So, here we go! >>> Considering I am in the Washington DC area, and it's the beginning of April:

* Under large tree: I would like some color all around the tree stump & create a bed with soil and topsoil. I'd like some nursery plants that last more than just one bloom. And that I can plant now or soon, and that do not need FULL sun all the time. Could you suggest a variety?
* For area under pines: I hear that pine juice kills off grass and the like? Maybe ground-cover? Also, it is a good area for a container garden. Can you suggest good plants (same desire as above)
I could use in large containers?
THANKS!  

Answer
Hi Gary,
Thanx for your question.  For continuous blooming underneath the large tree, I would use impatiens.  These are annuals but will continue to bloom throughout the summer and fall until frost.  Vinca will also work but I like impatiens better.  You might even want to plant some coleus for the colorful foliage.  I would plant coleus around the inner ring towards the trunk and then the impatiens in the outer section.  Underneath the pine tree I would try a ground cover like periwinkle or an ivy.  Good luck.  It is tough to get much to grow under a pine tree.  You can get these types of plants to grow underneath pines:Azaleas, Hydrangea,Rhododendron, Bleeding heart,hosta, Variegated ivy, Groundcover strawberry, Lily-of-the-valley.  They won't bloom continuously but they fill in the area nicely.  For a container garden in heavy shade?  I would use coleus for color.  If it is warm enough, the impatiens, vinca and begonias should do nicely.  I hope this helps.
Tom