What Fruit Trees Should Not Be Planted Together

Planting your own fruit trees in your backyard is an exciting and fulfilling activity. However, it’s important to know what fruit trees should not be planted together to avoid problems with growth, pests, and diseases. Not all fruit trees can thrive together, so proper planning and research is key before you start planting. In this article, we’ll discuss which fruit trees should not be planted together and the reasons why.

Apple Trees and Pear Trees

Apple trees and pear trees should not be planted together because they are vulnerable to the same diseases such as fire blight, cedar apple rust, and pear scab. These diseases can easily spread and infect both trees, leading to stunted growth and poor fruit production. Additionally, apple trees and pear trees have different nutrient requirements, so planting them together can lead to competition for essential nutrients, resulting in weaker trees with smaller fruits.

Cherry Trees and Plum Trees

Cherry trees and plum trees should not be planted together because they are prone to similar pests such as aphids, spider mites, and fruit flies. Planting these trees in close proximity can create a breeding ground for pests, making it difficult to control and manage infestations. Moreover, cherry trees prefer well-drained soil while plum trees prefer moist soil, so planting them together can create an imbalance in soil moisture, affecting the health and growth of both trees.

Peach Trees and Apricot Trees

Peach trees and apricot trees should not be planted together because they are both susceptible to the same diseases such as bacterial canker and peach leaf curl. These diseases can spread quickly and easily among the two trees, hindering growth and reducing fruit production. Furthermore, both trees require heavy pruning, which can lead to stress and damage when planted too closely, affecting the overall health and vigor of the trees.

Citrus Trees and Avocado Trees

Citrus trees and avocado trees should not be planted together because they have different soil pH requirements. Citrus trees prefer acidic soil while avocado trees prefer neutral to slightly alkaline soil. Planting these trees together can create an imbalance in soil pH, leading to nutrient deficiencies and stunted growth. Additionally, citrus trees and avocado trees have different watering needs, so planting them together can lead to overwatering or underwatering, causing damage and stress to the trees.

Final Thoughts

Planting fruit trees in your backyard can be a rewarding experience, but it’s important to remember that not all fruit trees are compatible when planted together. Understanding what fruit trees should not be planted together can help you avoid potential problems with diseases, pests, and growth. Proper planning, research, and care are essential in creating a healthy and thriving orchard in your backyard.