Introduction

Black walnut trees are a valuable source of timber and nuts, but they can also cause problems for other plants growing nearby. Black walnut trees produce a chemical called juglone, which is toxic to many plants. This makes it difficult to find suitable trees to plant near black walnut trees. However, there are some trees that are more tolerant of juglone and can thrive when planted near black walnut trees. In this article, we will discuss what trees can be planted near black walnut and how to care for them.

Trees to Plant Near Black Walnut

There are several trees that can be planted near black walnut trees without being affected by the juglone. Some of the best options include:

Redbud

Dogwood

Sugar maple

Ironwood

Tulip tree

Hickory

Serviceberry

These trees are all fairly tolerant of juglone and can thrive in the presence of black walnut trees. They are also good choices for adding variety and interest to your landscape.

Care and Maintenance

While these trees can tolerate juglone, they still require proper care and maintenance in order to thrive. Here are some tips:

Plant the trees at least 50 feet away from the black walnut tree to reduce exposure to the juglone.

Choose trees that are healthy and disease-free.

Provide the trees with plenty of water and nutrients, especially during the first year after planting.

Prune the trees regularly to remove damaged or diseased branches.

Monitor the trees for signs of stress or disease and address any issues promptly.

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your trees will thrive despite the presence of juglone from the black walnut tree.

Other Considerations

While these trees are more tolerant of juglone than others, it's important to remember that they may still be affected by the chemical in high enough concentrations. If you are planting trees near black walnut, it's a good idea to choose a mix of species to help spread out the risk. Additionally, keep in mind that other plants may not be able to tolerate juglone either, so it's important to choose companion plants that are also tolerant of the chemical.

Conclusion

Black walnut trees can be a challenge for gardeners and landscapers because of their juglone content. However, by choosing the right trees and providing proper care and maintenance, you can create a beautiful and diverse landscape even in the presence of black walnut trees. Whether you choose a redbud, dogwood, sugar maple, ironwood, tulip tree, hickory or serviceberry, be sure to follow these guidelines and monitor your trees for signs of stress or disease. With a little effort, you can create a thriving and beautiful landscape that includes black walnut trees and other species.