What to Plant with Honeycrisp Apple Tree

Planting a honeycrisp apple tree is a great investment for any orchard. Not only do they produce deliciously sweet and crisp apples, but they also make a great centerpiece tree for any yard. However, choosing the right companion plants to grow with your honeycrisp apple tree is essential to ensure the health and growth of both plants. Here are some plants to consider planting alongside your honeycrisp apple tree.

Companion Planting

Companion planting is the practice of growing different plants together in close proximity to provide mutual benefits. When choosing companion plants for honeycrisp apple trees, it is important to consider plants that have similar growing requirements and provide benefits such as nitrogen fixation or pest control.

Clover

Clover is an excellent companion plant for honeycrisp apple trees. It is a legume that provides nitrogen fixation, which helps to improve soil health and promote healthy growth in the apple tree. Clover is also a natural weed suppressor and provides a good groundcover to prevent soil erosion.

Nasturtiums

Nasturtiums are a colorful and attractive option for companion planting with honeycrisp apple trees. As well as being a natural pest repellent, nasturtiums provide a source of nectar and pollen for bees and other pollinators, which is essential for apple tree fruit production. Nasturtiums also help to attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs which feed on aphids, making them an effective natural pest control solution.

Lavender

Lavender is another great companion plant for honeycrisp apple trees. Known for its aromatic and calming qualities, lavender attracts bees and other beneficial insects which help to pollinate the apple tree flowers, and control pests. The fragrant lavender also helps to mask any unpleasant odors which can attract pests, helping to further protect the honeycrisp apple tree.

Chives

Chives are an excellent option for companion planting with honeycrisp apple trees. They help to deter pests such as aphids, making them an effective natural pest repellent. Chives are also a source of nectar which attracts bees and other pollinators, essential for apple tree fruit production. Additionally, chives add a flavorful element to cooking and can be easily harvested from the garden.

Conclusion

In conclusion, planting companion plants alongside honeycrisp apple trees can provide many benefits, including improved soil health, natural pest control, and increased pollination for a better yield of sweet and crisp apples. Clover, nasturtiums, lavender, and chives are just a few of the many options available for companion planting with honeycrisp apple trees. When choosing companion plants, it is important to do your research and make sure they are suitable for the growing conditions and needs of your honeycrisp apple tree.