What to Plant Under Fruit Trees in New Zealand

Planting under fruit trees in New Zealand can be very beneficial to your garden. Not only can it create a beautiful and functional garden space, but it can also help to improve the soil quality, reduce erosion, and attract beneficial insects. In this article, we'll take a closer look at some of the best plants to grow under fruit trees in New Zealand.

Herbs

Herbs are a great choice for planting under fruit trees in New Zealand. There are many different types of herbs that grow well in this environment, including mint, thyme, oregano, rosemary, and sage. These plants not only add a fragrant aroma to your garden, but they also have a wide range of culinary and medicinal uses.

In addition, many herbs are natural pest repellents, which can help to protect your fruit trees from damage. For example, mint and basil are known to repel aphids, while thyme and rosemary can help deter beetles and moths.

Groundcovers

Groundcovers can also be a great addition to your fruit tree garden. These plants can help to protect the soil, prevent weed growth, and provide a natural mulch as they break down. Some great options for groundcovers include clover, chamomile, and creeping thyme.

Clover is particularly beneficial as it adds nitrogen to the soil, which can help to improve the health and quality of your fruit trees. Chamomile is also a great choice as it attracts beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies, which can help to pollinate your fruit trees.

Ferns and Hostas

If you have shaded areas under your fruit trees, ferns and hostas can be a great choice. These plants thrive in cooler temperatures and can help to add a lush and green look to your garden. In addition, ferns can help to improve soil quality by adding organic matter as they decompose.

However, it's important to note that ferns and hostas can attract snails and slugs, which can be detrimental to your fruit trees. To prevent this, it's a good idea to use a natural pest repellent or to remove any snails and slugs that you find.

Flowers

Finally, flowers can be a great addition to your fruit tree garden. Not only do they add color and texture, but they can also attract beneficial insects and pollinators. Some great options for flowers to plant under fruit trees in New Zealand include marigolds, daisies, and lavender.

Marigolds are particularly beneficial as they repel harmful insects and can help to control nematodes in the soil. Daisies are also a great choice as they attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs, which can help to control aphids and other pests.

Conclusion

Planting under fruit trees in New Zealand can be a great way to improve your garden and protect your fruit trees. Whether you choose to plant herbs, groundcovers, ferns and hostas, or flowers, there are many great options to choose from. By incorporating these plants into your garden, you can create a beautiful and functional space that benefits both you and your fruit trees.