Apricot Companion Plants: A Guide to Growing Apricots with the Right Companions

Oleh Anonymous March 10, 2023 Post a Comment

Table of Contents

to Apricot Companion Plants

Apricots are one of the most popular fruit trees in the world, known for their delicious flavor and nutritional value. However, growing apricots can be challenging, especially if you don't have the right companion plants. In this guide, we'll explore the best apricot companion plants that will help you grow healthy and productive apricot trees.

The Best Apricot Companion Plants

1. Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are a great companion plant for apricots because they attract beneficial insects that help control pests. They also add color to your garden and can be used as a ground cover to help retain moisture in the soil. Nasturtiums are easy to grow from seed and prefer well-drained soil.

How to Grow Nasturtiums

To grow nasturtiums, sow the seeds directly into the soil after the last frost. Plant them about 12 inches apart and water them regularly. Nasturtiums prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade.

2. Marigolds

Marigolds are another great companion plant for apricots because they repel harmful insects and nematodes. They also add color to your garden and are easy to grow from seed. Marigolds prefer well-drained soil and full sun.

How to Grow Marigolds

To grow marigolds, sow the seeds directly into the soil after the last frost. Plant them about 12 inches apart and water them regularly. Marigolds prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade.

3. Comfrey

Comfrey is a great companion plant for apricots because it adds nutrients to the soil and helps retain moisture. It also attracts beneficial insects and can be used as a natural mulch. Comfrey prefers rich, moist soil and partial shade.

How to Grow Comfrey

To grow comfrey, plant root cuttings in the spring or fall. Plant them about 2 feet apart and water them regularly. Comfrey prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun.

4. Clover

Clover is a great companion plant for apricots because it fixes nitrogen in the soil and helps retain moisture. It also attracts beneficial insects and can be used as a natural mulch. Clover prefers well-drained soil and partial shade.

How to Grow Clover

To grow clover, sow the seeds directly into the soil in the spring or fall. Plant them about 6 inches apart and water them regularly. Clover prefers partial shade but can tolerate full sun.

5. Chives

Chives are a great companion plant for apricots because they repel harmful insects and add flavor to your cooking. They also attract beneficial insects and can be used as a natural mulch. Chives prefer well-drained soil and full sun.

How to Grow Chives

To grow chives, plant the bulbs or seeds in the spring or fall. Plant them about 6 inches apart and water them regularly. Chives prefer full sun but can tolerate partial shade.

Other Factors to Consider When Growing Apricots

1. Soil pH

Apricots prefer slightly acidic soil with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0. If your soil is too alkaline, you can add sulfur to lower the pH. If your soil is too acidic, you can add lime to raise the pH.

2. Watering

Apricots need regular watering, especially during dry spells. However, they don't like to be waterlogged, so make sure the soil has good drainage.

3. Pruning

Apricots need regular pruning to maintain their shape and promote healthy growth. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.

FAQs

1. How often should I water my apricot tree?

You should water your apricot tree once a week during dry spells. Make sure the soil has good drainage to prevent waterlogging.

2. Can I grow apricots in containers?

Yes, you can grow apricots in containers as long as they are large enough and have good drainage. Use a well-draining potting mix and fertilize regularly.

3. What pests should I watch out for when growing apricots?

The most common pests that affect apricots are aphids, mites, and peach twig borers. Use natural pest control methods, such as companion planting and beneficial insects, to control these pests.

4. When is the best time to harvest apricots?

Apricots are ready to harvest when they are slightly soft to the touch and have a sweet fragrance. Harvest them in mid-summer when they are fully ripe.

5. How can I tell if my apricot tree is healthy?

A healthy apricot tree will have green leaves, strong branches, and a good amount of fruit. If you notice any signs of disease or pests, take action immediately to prevent further damage.

Great! In that case, let's get ed with some information about apricot companion plants.

Firstly, it's important to note that apricots are self-fertile and do not require a pollinator. However, planting companion plants can still be beneficial for the health of your apricot tree and can even improve its overall productivity.

One great option for an apricot companion plant is comfrey. This herb has deep roots that can reach nutrients deep in the soil and bring them up to the surface, where the apricot tree can access them. Comfrey also attracts beneficial insects like bees and ladybugs, which can help with pollination and pest control.

Another good choice for an apricot companion plant is clover. Clover is a nitrogen-fixing plant, which means it takes nitrogen from the air and converts it into a form that can be used by plants. This can help provide essential nutrients to your apricot tree and improve the health of the soil.

Finally, consider planting chives alongside your apricot tree. Chives have a strong scent that can help repel pests like aphids and moths, which can damage apricot trees. Additionally, chives attract many beneficial insects, including hoverflies and predatory wasps, which can help keep pest populations under control.

I hope this information was helpful! Let me know if you have any additional questions or would like further advice on growing apricots. Hello there! How can I assist you today?