Nanking Cherry Companion Plants: The Perfect Companions for Your Garden

Oleh Anonymous November 23, 2023 Post a Comment

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The Importance of Companion Planting

Companion planting is an age-old gardening technique that involves planting different crops together to enhance their growth and productivity. This technique can also help to deter pests, attract pollinators, and improve soil health. Nanking cherry is a popular fruit-bearing shrub, and by selecting the right companion plants, you can maximize the benefits of your garden. In this article, we will discuss the best companion plants for Nanking cherry.

What is Nanking Cherry?

Nanking cherry (Prunus tomentosa) is a deciduous shrub that is native to Asia. It grows up to 10 feet tall and produces small, bright red cherries in early summer. The fruit is tart but flavorful and can be used in jams, jellies, and other recipes. Nanking cherry is hardy in USDA zones 2-7 and prefers full sun to partial shade.

Companion Plants for Nanking Cherry

Lavender: Lavender is a beautiful flowering herb that attracts beneficial insects like bees and butterflies to your garden. It also has a calming scent that can help to repel pests like moths and mosquitoes. Plant lavender around the base of your Nanking cherry shrubs to create a fragrant and colorful border.
Chives: Chives are a member of the onion family and have a pungent flavor that can help to repel pests like aphids and mites. They also produce beautiful purple flowers that attract pollinators to your garden. Plant chives near your Nanking cherry shrubs to deter pests and improve soil health.

Other Companion Plants for Nanking Cherry

Comfrey: Comfrey is a perennial herb that has deep roots that can help to break up compacted soil and improve drainage. It also produces beautiful purple flowers that attract bees and other beneficial insects to your garden. Plant comfrey near your Nanking cherry shrubs to improve soil health and prevent erosion.
Yarrow: Yarrow is a herbaceous perennial that is known for its ability to repel pests like aphids and mites. It also attracts beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to your garden. Plant yarrow around your Nanking cherry shrubs to enhance their growth and productivity.
Calendula: Calendula is a beautiful flowering herb that attracts pollinators to your garden. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that can help to soothe skin irritations and reduce inflammation. Plant calendula near your Nanking cherry shrubs to add color and fragrance to your garden.

How to Grow Nanking Cherry with Companion Plants

To grow Nanking cherry with companion plants, you should first choose the right location for your garden. Nanking cherry prefers full sun to partial shade and well-draining soil. Once you have selected your site, prepare the soil by adding compost or other organic matter to improve fertility.

Next, plant your Nanking cherry shrubs in a row or group, leaving enough space between them to allow for maximum growth. Then, plant your companion plants around the base of the shrubs, taking care not to overcrowd them.

Water your garden regularly, and mulch around the base of the shrubs to retain moisture and prevent weeds. You can also fertilize your plants with a balanced fertilizer in the spring and fall to promote healthy growth.

FAQs

1. Can I grow Nanking cherry in a container?

Yes, you can grow Nanking cherry in a container as long as you choose a large enough pot and provide it with the right growing conditions. Use a well-draining soil mix and water your plant regularly.

2. How do I prune Nanking cherry?

To prune Nanking cherry, wait until after the fruit has been harvested, then remove any dead or diseased wood. You can also thin out the branches to improve air circulation and promote healthy growth.

3. How do I harvest Nanking cherry?

To harvest Nanking cherry, wait until the fruit is fully ripe and has turned bright red. Then, gently twist the fruit off the stem and place it in a basket or container.

4. Can Nanking cherry be used for cooking?

Yes, Nanking cherry can be used in a variety of recipes, including jams, jellies, and baked goods. The fruit is tart but flavorful and pairs well with other fruits like strawberries and rhubarb.