Shady backyard area under a tree  - ground cover

Question: Hello!
We have an area of our backyard which is under a beautiful tree with a large canopy. We know that grass does not grow there and have just put down mulch for now. Ideally, I would like to plant a ground cover instead of the mulch. I had thought of ivy, but know there are different types, some which are invasive, and was hoping for your suggestions on an ivy type or other ground covers that may work. 
Thank you!

responder: Dennis Mohn  Replied May 24, 2023, 6:30 PM EDT
response: Hello Lauren,       I'm Dennis, That is a beautiful tree you have there. To begin , I would suggest adding about 3 to 4 inches of amended soil or compost to the area you wish to plant. Try to stay about 4 to 6 inches away from the trunk of the tree to protect the base of the tree from being buried and to help keep insects away from the root swell. If you add mulch after planting you will want to do the same 4 to 6 inches away from the base of the tree for the trees health.       It appears from the picture you have at least one area, in the corner by the fence, that may be more shaded than other areas. I will do a little research and get back with you in a day or two with a list of plants that may do well for your location.  It would be best not to rototill this area as it could damage the root structure of the tree. I will go more into that when I return with a plant list

responder: Dennis Mohn  Replied May 26, 2023, 7:07 AM EDT
response: Hello Lauren.  Dennis here again. I have referenced a few articles which mention plants that should grow well in your shaded area. I should mention , you may wish to consider some container plantings for the area also. Containers can be moved around to change the appearance of an area as well as take advantage of light differences as the season changes. I would also mention adding planters to thee fence and even some folly to break up the lines and appearance of the fence lines. The addition of window frames with landscape pictures would give the impression of looking through the fence to another landscape and add depth to the setting Here are some articles on shade plantings with plant suggestions you may find interesting and helpful. https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/#inbox/FMfcgzGsmhfdQwXQTdlmwHFfmtjVGQSF https://www.google.com/search?rlz=1C1GCEA_enUS939US939&sxsrf=APwXEdcmHU0M3UqC6RVBi7Fdx1mdfp1bag:<personal data hidden>44&q=container+gardening+for+shade&tbm=isch&source=univ&fir=gqkdArc_c5paDM%25  https://gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu/design/landscaping-for-specific-sites/shady-landscapes.html https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/gardening-shade https://bygl.osu.edu/index.php/search/node?keys=shade%20planting&page=0 https://mast-producing-trees.org/what-to-plant-around-an-oak-tree-in-ohio/

responder: The Question Asker Replied June 01, 2023, 8:43 AM EDT
response: Dennis,Thank you so much for your thoughtful reply. The resources you provided are so very helpful!  I hope you have a great day (and summer)  : )Take care,Lauren EvansOn Fri, May 26, 2023 at 7:07 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: Dennis Mohn  Replied June 01, 2023, 1:25 PM EDT
response: Lauren,      You are very welcome. If you have any additional questions feel free to contact us  De3nnis Mohn