It was planted under very tall Eastern White Pine.Reinbeau said:Depends on what kind of trees you planted them under. Witch hazels are understory subtrees, they belong in the lower layer of a forest. If you planted them near something like a maple, however, that would cause problems - most cultivated maples have extensive surface roots, nothing much will grow beneath them. You'll see witch hazels under oaks, beeches, etc., i.e. a mixed forest.