Introduction

Walnut trees are a great addition to any garden or orchard. Besides providing a bounty of delicious nuts, they also add to the aesthetic value of the space. However, planting other crops near a walnut tree can be a tricky task. This is because walnut trees release a chemical called juglone into the soil and surrounding areas, which can be toxic to some plants. In this article, we'll discuss what you can plant near a walnut tree without any adverse effects.

Plants that can tolerate juglone

Despite being toxic to many plants, juglone doesn't affect all vegetation. There are some plants that can tolerate it and thrive near a walnut tree. These include:

Blackberry

Blueberry

Chives

Cilantro

Currant

Lavender

Peppermint

Rhubarb

Thyme

These plants can be grown in the soil surrounding a walnut tree with virtually no adverse effects. They'll still need proper irrigation and care, but they won't be affected by the juglone in the soil.

Plants that can be grown in containers

If you're looking to grow something that doesn't tolerate juglone, you can always plant it in a container. This allows you to control the soil and ensure that your plant isn't exposed to the toxic chemical. Here are a few plants that can be grown in containers near a walnut tree:

Basil

Broccoli

Cabbage

Carrots

Cauliflower

Cucumber

Lettuce

These plants can be grown in pots or raised beds filled with uncontaminated soil. They can be placed near a walnut tree without any negative effects, as long as they're not planted directly into the ground.

Plants to avoid planting near a walnut tree

There are some plants that are particularly sensitive to juglone and should be avoided when planting near a walnut tree:

Apple trees

Asparagus

Beans and peas

Birch trees

Cherry trees

Tomato plants

Walnut trees (yes, planting multiple walnut trees too close to one another can cause problems)

If you're planning to plant any of these crops or trees, it's best to do so at least 50 feet away from a walnut tree to avoid any potential contamination.

Conclusion

Although walnut trees can be a challenge when it comes to planting other crops nearby, there are still plenty of options for a diverse and productive garden or orchard. By choosing the right plants and taking certain precautions, you can safely and effectively grow a variety of crops within close proximity to a walnut tree.