Question
Hello:

We just purchased a home w/ a mature Black Walnut tree in our backyard. I've noticed that it drops a huge amount of litter. Any advice/suggestions as to what to construct/plant beneath the tree's dripline? Our concrete patio has become stained w/ the shell's tar-like material,...Thanks for your comments.

Answer
Mike,

Mature walnuts are great trees but for every good thing there are always drawbacks.

Any hardscape is going to stain.  Planting will be problematic.  There is a compound called juglone produced by walnuts.  This juglone inhibits the growth of other plants to reduce competition.

I would go ahead and landscape as you see fit knowing that some plant material will not survive and have a plan to clean the patio and hardscape.  This way you can find out what works.

You could also hire a landscaper/designer as a consultant to help with ideas to overcome these problems.

I hope this helps.

Gary