Companion Plants for Black Walnuts: What You Need to Know

Oleh Anonymous October 31, 2022 Post a Comment

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Black Walnut Companion Plants

If you're growing black walnuts or planning to grow them, then you're probably aware of their allelopathic effects. Black walnut trees release a chemical called juglone, which can be toxic to some plants, making it difficult to find companion plants that can thrive in its presence.

However, there are still many plants that can thrive alongside black walnuts, and we will explore these options in this article.

Why Companion Plants Are Important for Black Walnuts

Companion planting is an essential gardening technique that involves planting different crops together to create a mutually beneficial relationship. When it comes to black walnuts, companion planting is even more critical because the trees' roots release juglone, which can harm other plants.

By choosing the right companion plants, you can create a diverse ecosystem that supports each other and helps to reduce the impact of juglone.

Choosing the Right Companion Plants

When selecting companion plants for black walnuts, it's important to choose plants that have a tolerance for juglone. These plants should also have shallow root systems since the roots of black walnuts tend to be deep and extensive.

Some plants that are known to do well as black walnut companions include:

1. Bee Balm

Bee balm is a member of the mint family and has a shallow root system, making it an excellent choice for companion planting with black walnuts. It is also a beautiful and fragrant plant that attracts pollinators.

How to Grow Bee Balm

Bee balm prefers well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It can be grown from seeds or transplants and should be watered regularly.

2. Blue Flag Iris

Blue flag iris is a beautiful plant that produces lovely blue flowers in the spring. It's also an excellent companion plant for black walnuts because it can tolerate juglone.

How to Grow Blue Flag Iris

Blue flag iris prefers moist, rich soil and full sun to part shade. It can be grown from seeds or rhizomes and should be watered regularly.

3. Wild Ginger

Wild ginger is a low-growing perennial that has heart-shaped leaves and reddish-brown flowers. It's an excellent companion plant for black walnuts because it can tolerate juglone.

How to Grow Wild Ginger

Wild ginger prefers well-drained soil and partial to full shade. It can be propagated by division or seed and should be watered regularly.

4. Hosta

Hostas are a popular choice for shady gardens and are known for their beautiful foliage. They're also an excellent companion plant for black walnuts because they can tolerate juglone.

How to Grow Hosta

Hostas prefer moist, well-drained soil and partial to full shade. They can be propagated by division or seed and should be watered regularly.

Other Companion Plants for Black Walnuts

In addition to the plants mentioned above, there are many other companion plants that can thrive alongside black walnuts. Some of these include:

1. Columbine

Columbine is a beautiful flowering plant that attracts hummingbirds and butterflies. It's also an excellent companion plant for black walnuts because it can tolerate juglone.

How to Grow Columbine

Columbine prefers well-drained soil and partial shade. It can be grown from seeds or transplants and should be watered regularly.

2. Lady Fern

Lady fern is a beautiful perennial that has delicate leaves and can grow up to three feet tall. It's also an excellent companion plant for black walnuts because it can tolerate juglone.

How to Grow Lady Fern

Lady fern prefers moist, rich soil and partial to full shade. It can be grown from spores or purchased as a transplant and should be watered regularly.

3. Joe-Pye Weed

Joe-Pye weed is a stunning plant that produces pink or purple flowers in the late summer. It's also an excellent companion plant for black walnuts because it can tolerate juglone.

How to Grow Joe-Pye Weed

Joe-Pye weed prefers moist, well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. It can be grown from seeds or transplants and should be watered regularly.

Black walnuts can be challenging to grow due to their allelopathic effects. However, by choosing the right companion plants, you can create a diverse ecosystem that supports each other and helps to reduce the impact of juglone. Some of the best companion plants for black walnuts include bee balm, blue flag iris, wild ginger, and hostas.

FAQs

1. Can I grow vegetables near black walnut trees?

Yes, but not all vegetables will tolerate the presence of juglone. Some vegetables that can grow near black walnut trees include tomatoes, peppers, and potatoes.

2. Is it safe to eat food grown near black walnut trees?

Yes, but it's essential to wash vegetables thoroughly before eating them to remove any juglone residue.

3. How can I tell if my plant is being affected by juglone?

Plants that are affected by juglone will typically have yellowing or wilting leaves, stunted growth, and may eventually die.

4. Can I add compost from black walnut leaves to my garden?

No, it's best to avoid using compost from black walnut leaves because they contain high levels of juglone.

5. Are there any plants that should not be planted near black walnuts?

Yes, some plants that are sensitive to juglone and should not be planted near black walnuts include azaleas, rhododendrons, blueberries, and strawberries.