The Ultimate Guide to Companion Plants for Trees

Oleh Anonymous June 16, 2023 Post a Comment

Table of Contents

Companion Plants for Trees: An Overview

If you're a gardener or a nature enthusiast, you've probably heard about companion planting. This is the practice of growing different plants together in order to benefit each other. One of the most common types of companion planting is growing plants together with trees. In this post, we'll explore the benefits of companion planting for trees and some of the best companion plants to grow alongside them.

The Benefits of Companion Plants for Trees

Companion planting has been practiced for centuries, and for good reason. Growing certain plants alongside trees can have many benefits. For example, companion plants can:

1. Help Attract Pollinators

Many fruit trees require pollination in order to produce fruit. By growing plants that attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, you can increase the chances of successful pollination. Some great pollinator-attracting plants include:

Lavender
Borage
Marigold
Sunflower

2. Improve Soil Health

Trees and plants have different nutrient needs. By growing plants with complementary nutrient needs, you can avoid depleting soil nutrients and improve overall soil health. Some great soil-improving companion plants include:

Clover
Vetch
Legumes

3. Repel Pests

Some plants have natural pest-repelling properties, which can help protect trees from pests and diseases. Some great pest-repelling companion plants include:

Garlic
Chives
Nasturtiums
Marigold

4. Provide Shade

Trees can provide shade for other plants, but the reverse is also true. Growing shade-loving plants under trees can help protect them from the sun and heat. Some great shade-loving companion plants include:

Ferns
Hellebores
Astilbes
Hostas

The Best Companion Plants for Trees

Now that you know some of the benefits of companion planting for trees, let's take a look at some of the best companion plants to grow alongside them.

1. Blueberries

Blueberries are a great companion plant for fruit trees such as apple, pear, and peach trees. They are both acid-loving plants, making them a great match. Plus, blueberries attract pollinators and repel pests.

2. Daffodils

Daffodils are a great companion plant for deciduous trees such as oak and maple trees. They bloom early in the spring, which helps attract pollinators to the area. Plus, their bulbs help improve soil health.

3. Garlic

Garlic is a great companion plant for just about any tree. It repels pests and improves soil health. Plant garlic cloves around the base of your trees in the fall for best results.

4. Ferns

Ferns are a great shade-loving companion plant for trees such as birch and beech trees. They thrive in moist, shady environments, making them a perfect match for the understory of these trees.

5. Marigolds

Marigolds are a great pest-repelling companion plant for fruit trees such as peach and apple trees. They emit a strong scent that repels many common pests, including aphids and whiteflies.

How to Plant Companion Plants for Trees

Now that you know which companion plants to grow alongside your trees, it's time to get planting! Here are some tips for successful companion planting:

1. Choose Complementary Plants

When choosing companion plants, make sure they have complementary nutrient and water needs. This will help ensure they thrive together.

2. Plant at the Right Time

Plant your companion plants at the same time as your trees, or slightly later. Avoid planting too late in the season, as this can lead to competition for resources.

3. Provide Adequate Space

Make sure to provide enough space between your trees and companion plants. This will help prevent competition for resources and ensure both plants thrive.

4. Water Regularly

Companion plants may require more frequent watering than trees, so make sure to water them regularly.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I grow vegetables alongside my trees?

Yes, many vegetables make great companion plants for trees. Some good options include tomatoes, lettuce, and beans.

2. How many companion plants should I grow alongside my tree?

This depends on the size of your tree and the size of your companion plants. As a general rule, aim for at least three companion plants per tree.

3. Can companion plants harm my trees?

If planted incorrectly, companion plants can compete with trees for resources and harm them. Make sure to choose complementary plants and provide adequate space.

4. What if my tree is already established?

If your tree is already established, it may be more difficult to plant companion plants without disturbing the tree's roots. Consider planting in containers or raised beds instead.

5. How do I know which companion plants are right for my tree?

Research the specific nutrient and water needs of your tree, and choose companion plants with complementary needs. Consult with a local gardening expert for additional guidance.

That's it! Hopefully, this guide has given you some ideas for companion planting with trees. By growing the right plants alongside your trees, you can improve soil health, attract pollinators, repel pests, and more. Happy planting!