Grass

• To provide turf, extend your lawn or control erosion, plant either Kentucky bluegrass or tall fescue. Both grasses are robust and able to thrive when planted in partial sun and not cut too often. Many turf seed suppliers also provide blends of Kentucky bluegrass and tall fescue. To plant, till and amend the soil, as needed. Till shallowly so as to not disturb the tree's roots. If necessary, add extra soil on top of the existing ground. Compact the ground with a tamper then scratch the surface with a rake. Sprinkle the seeds by hand or with a seed spreader and water lightly. Lay some hay or straw over the ground to protect the seeds and keep the ground moist until the grass starts to grow.
  
  

Ground Cover

• For something that will decorate the ground under the maple tree and that is low maintenance, plant Virginia creeper. Virginia creeper is a shade-tolerant, ground covering vine that prefers filtered light and will not be affected by the tree's biochemical secretions. As they find their way up, Virginia creeper vines will also ornament the tree trunk. To start Virgina creeper, transplant potted starter plants into the ground around the tree. Dig holes the same depth as the root ball and space plants at least 36 inches apart.
  
  

Shrubs

• For resilient, woody plants to ornament the area near the walnut tree, choose from several types of hydrojuglone-resistant shrubs. Flowering shrubs include hydrangea, witch hazel, lilac, hibiscus, daphne and forsythia. For evergreen shrubs, plant American holly or elderberry. Plant shrubs no closer than 1 foot from maple tree's trunk to ensure there is adequate soil depth for the shrub roots. Follow the specific planting, spacing, watering and pruning requirements for the type of shrub.
  
  

Flowers

• If a flower bed is desired, an assortment of flowers can survive in the soil around the maple tree. Types that also do well in shade include asters, begonias, primroses and scilla. Asters have daisylike flowers that bloom in a variety of colors, including purple, blue and white. Begonias look like roses and flowers are often red, pink or peach. Primroses have simple, delicate flowers that grow pale yellow. Scillas grow clusters of little, star-shaped flowers that are a rich, sky-blue color. Plant flowers where digging will not damage the tree's roots. If necessary, build a shallow, raised bed around the tree.