Introduction

Fruit trees are an excellent addition to any garden or orchard. They are not only visually appealing but also provide fresh, healthy fruits. To enhance the productivity of your fruit trees, it is essential to plant compatible plant species that can improve the soil condition, attract beneficial insects, and control pests and diseases. In this article, we will discuss some of the best plants to grow around fruit trees.

Companion plants for fruit trees

1. Comfrey

Comfrey is a nutrient-dense herb that is rich in potassium, nitrogen, and phosphorus. Its deep roots can penetrate the soil, break up compacted grounds and take up nutrients that are inaccessible to other plants. Mulching your fruit tree with comfrey leaves or planting comfrey around fruit trees can help maintain the soil's fertility and moisture level.

2. Clover

Clover is a leguminous plant that fixes nitrogen in the soil. It is an excellent plant to grow under and around fruit trees because it promotes soil health while attracting beneficial insects like bees and butterflies. Clover has shallow roots and can act as a living mulch, suppressing weeds and keeping the soil cool during hot weather.

3. Chervil

Chervil is a herb with delicate leaves that can serve as an excellent companion for fruit trees. It attracts predatory insects like ladybugs and lacewings, which prey on pests like aphids and mites. Chervil can also act as a trap crop, attracting pests away from fruit trees and preventing them from infesting your plants.

Plants to avoid around fruit trees

While planting compatible plants around fruit trees can boost their productivity, there are some plants you should avoid. These include:

1. Black Walnut

Black walnut trees are allelopathic, meaning they release chemicals that can inhibit the growth and productivity of other plants around them. If you have fruit trees in proximity to black walnuts, they may not perform as well as they should. Other trees that can have a similar effect include eucalyptus, hackberry, and conifers.

2. Grass

Growing grass under fruit trees can be problematic because they compete for nutrients and water. The grass can also make it difficult to observe pests and diseases and can harbor fungal spores that can infect your fruit trees.

3. Nightshade Plants

Plants in the Nightshade family, like tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants, are susceptible to similar pests and diseases as fruit trees. Planting them near each other can lead to the build-up of pests and diseases, which can spread to both plants.

Conclusion

Planting compatible plant species around fruit trees can enhance productivity and promote soil health. Comfrey, clover, and chervil are excellent companion plants for fruit trees. While it's essential to plant carefully, there are some plants that you should avoid around fruit trees, like the Black Walnut. By planting the right plants around your fruit trees, you can enjoy a bountiful harvest and a healthy, thriving ecosystem.