Companion Planting for Apple Trees: How to Choose the Best Plants

Oleh Anonymous January 09, 2022 Post a Comment

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Apple Tree Companion Plants

If you're looking to grow healthy and fruitful apple trees in your garden or orchard, then you should consider planting companion plants. Companion plants are other plants that can grow alongside your apple trees and provide benefits such as pollination, pest control, and soil enrichment. In this article, we'll discuss some of the best companion plants for apple trees and how to choose the right ones for your needs.

Choosing the Right Companion Plants

When choosing companion plants for your apple trees, it's important to take into account several factors such as the climate, soil type, and the apple variety you're growing. Here are some tips to help you choose the right companion plants:

Consider the Climate

Different apple varieties require different climates to thrive, so it's essential to pick companion plants that are also suited to your climate. For example, if you live in a hot and dry region, then you might want to plant drought-resistant plants such as lavender or chamomile.

Check the Soil Type

The soil type in your garden or orchard will also influence which companion plants will do well. For instance, if you have heavy clay soil, then you might want to plant nitrogen-fixing plants such as clover or alfalfa to improve soil fertility and drainage.

Think About Pest Control

Certain companion plants can help repel pests that could damage your apple trees. For example, planting marigolds or garlic around your apple trees can deter aphids, while planting catnip can repel mosquitoes and flies.

Best Companion Plants for Apple Trees

Now that you know what to look for when choosing companion plants, let's take a look at some of the best plants to grow alongside your apple trees:

1. Comfrey

Comfrey is an excellent companion plant for apple trees because it has deep roots that can reach nutrients in the soil that other plants can't access. It also helps improve soil structure and provides a source of nitrogen.

2. Dill

Dill is a natural insect repellent that can help keep pests such as aphids and spider mites away from your apple trees. It also attracts beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings, which feed on pest insects.

3. Borage

Borage is a useful companion plant for apple trees because it attracts bees and other pollinators. It also repels pests such as tomato hornworms and cabbage worms.

4. Yarrow

Yarrow is a hardy perennial that can improve soil fertility and attract beneficial insects such as hoverflies and parasitic wasps. It also has medicinal properties and can be used to make a tea that helps reduce fever and inflammation.

5. Chives

Chives are a natural insect repellent that can help keep aphids and other pests away from your apple trees. They also add flavor to your cooking and can be harvested throughout the growing season.

In planting companion plants alongside your apple trees can help improve soil fertility, pest control, and pollination. When choosing companion plants, consider the climate, soil type, and pest control needs of your apple trees. Some of the best companion plants for apple trees include comfrey, dill, borage, yarrow, and chives.