What to Plant with Fruit Trees?

If you have a fruit tree in your garden, you might be wondering what else you can plant alongside it to make the most of your available space. Some plants can complement your fruit trees by providing additional benefits, such as attracting pollinators, deterring pests, improving soil fertility, or providing a secondary crop.

1. Flowers and Herbs

Planting flowers and herbs around fruit trees can be very beneficial. For example, marigolds and nasturtiums can help repel pests, while lavender and chamomile can attract pollinators. Moreover, herbs like thyme and rosemary can provide extra flavor to your dishes and have medicinal properties. Be sure to select plants that have similar sunlight and water requirements as your fruit tree and avoid over-watering them, as they might compete for the same resources.

2. Nitrogen-Fixing Plants

Nitrogen-fixing plants, such as clover, beans, and peas, can improve the soil fertility around your fruit tree, as they can take nitrogen from the air and fix it into the soil. This can enhance the growth and health of your fruit tree, as well as reduce the need for synthetic fertilizers. Be mindful that some nitrogen-fixing plants can climb and compete for sunlight, so choose ones that won't overshadow your fruit tree.

3. Berry Bushes

Berry bushes, such as raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries, can be great companions for fruit trees, as they can thrive in similar soil conditions and make use of the space between the tree branches. Moreover, they can attract birds and beneficial insects, which can help with natural pest control. However, be aware that berry bushes can spread quickly and require regular pruning to prevent overcrowding and disease.

4. Ground Covers

Ground covers, such as clover, thyme, or creeping phlox, can serve as living mulch around your fruit tree. They can prevent soil erosion, conserve moisture, suppress weeds, and enhance soil fertility. Additionally, they can add visual appeal to your garden and create a welcoming habitat for beneficial insects. However, be careful not to let ground covers overgrow and smother your fruit tree roots or harbor pests and diseases.

5. Vegetables and Grains

Vegetables and grains, such as lettuce, kale, or wheat, can be grown alongside fruit trees in the off-season or in between the tree rows. They can help diversify your harvest, add nutrients to your diet, and improve soil structure. Additionally, they can serve as natural trap crops, which can lure away pests from your fruit trees and reduce damage. However, be cautious not to disturb your fruit tree roots or compete for resources, especially during the growing season.

Conclusion

Choosing what to plant with fruit trees can be a fun and creative way to optimize your garden space and reap multiple benefits. However, it's important to research and plan ahead, considering the specific needs and goals of your fruit tree and companion plants. Experimenting and observing the results can also help you adjust and improve your gardening practices over time.