What to Plant Under Fruit Trees in the UK

Fruit trees are a great addition to any garden or outdoor space. They provide delicious fruits that are not only healthy but also tasty. However, the space around the fruit trees can often be underutilized. Planting the right plants under fruit trees can not only beautify your garden but also provide a range of benefits such as improved soil health and increased biodiversity.

Considerations When Choosing Plants

Before deciding on the plants to grow under your fruit trees, it's important to consider a few factors such as the type of fruit tree, the soil type, and the amount of sunlight the area receives. Most fruit trees in the UK prefer well-drained soils with a neutral pH. They also require some amount of sunlight to thrive, so the plants chosen should be able to tolerate a range of light conditions, from full sun to shade.

Plant Options

A wide range of plants can be grown under fruit trees, depending on your preferences and needs. Here are some of the most popular options:

Ground Covers

Ground covers such as clover, thyme, and chamomile are great options for fruit tree understories. These fast-growing plants help to suppress weeds, retain moisture in the soil, and add visual interest to the space. They also fix nitrogen in the soil, which is beneficial to the fruit trees.

Herbs

Herbs such as mint, rosemary, and sage can also be grown under fruit trees. These plants not only add fragrance and flavor to the area, but they also have medicinal properties. For example, rosemary is said to improve memory and concentration, while mint aids digestion.

Bulbs

Bulbs such as daffodils, tulips, and crocuses are great options for adding color to the space under fruit trees. They require little maintenance and bloom in the spring, adding visual interest to the area.

Ferns

Ferns such as ostrich ferns and lady ferns thrive in shady areas and add a lush, tropical feel to the space under fruit trees. They also help to improve soil health by adding organic matter to the soil when their leaves decompose.

Benefits of Planting Under Fruit Trees

Planting under fruit trees offers a range of benefits, including:

Improving soil health: Plants grown under fruit trees help to improve soil structure, adding organic matter to the soil and improving its fertility.

Increased biodiversity: Growing a range of plants under fruit trees helps to increase biodiversity in the area, providing habitat for beneficial insects and wildlife.

Reducing water loss: Ground covers planted under fruit trees help to retain moisture in the soil, reducing the need for watering.

Conclusion

Planting under fruit trees can be a great way to maximize the space in your garden or outdoor area. The right plants can help to improve soil health, increase biodiversity, and add visual interest to the space. Consider plants such as groundcovers, herbs, bulbs, and ferns, and enjoy the benefits of a beautiful and productive garden.