What to Plant in Companion with Dwarf Apple Tree
Dwarf apple trees are easy to grow and maintain, making them a popular choice for many gardeners. However, planting companions alongside them can help enhance their growth and overall health, while also keeping pests and diseases at bay. Here are some of the best plants to consider planting in companion with your dwarf apple tree.
1. Marigolds
Marigolds are great companions for dwarf apple trees, as they help keep pests like aphids and nematodes away. They also help improve the soil by adding organic matter and minerals, making it more fertile and conducive for apple tree growth. Marigolds can also help attract beneficial insects, such as bees and butterflies, which help pollinate the apple trees.
2. Garlic
Garlic is known for its ability to repel pests like aphids, spider mites, and borers, making it an ideal companion plant for dwarf apple trees. It also helps improve soil health and fertility, reducing the risk of disease and promoting healthier tree growth. In addition, garlic can also be used as a natural insecticide and fungicide, helping keep the apple trees healthy and free from pests and diseases.
3. Nasturtiums
Nasturtiums are great companion plants for dwarf apple trees, as they help attract beneficial insects like aphid-eating ladybugs, which are known to prey on pests that commonly infest apple trees. They also help repel pests like whiteflies and thrips and improve soil health by adding organic matter and nutrients. Nasturtiums are easy to grow and make great ground covers, which help protect the soil, retain moisture, and reduce weed growth.
4. Chives
Chives have a strong odor that helps repel pests and deter fungal and bacterial diseases, making them an excellent companion plant for dwarf apple trees. They also attract beneficial insects like bees and wasps, which help pollinate the apple blossoms and prey on pests that commonly infest apple trees. Chives can be planted around the base of the apple trees or in containers near them, making them easy to maintain and harvest.
5. Lavender
Lavender is a great companion plant for dwarf apple trees, as it helps repel pests like moths, weevils, and borers, which can damage the fruit and leaves of the apple trees. It also attracts beneficial insects like bees, wasps, and butterflies, which help pollinate the apple blossoms and prey on pests that commonly infest apple trees. Lavender can be planted around the base of the apple trees or in containers near them and requires little maintenance once established.
Overall, planting companions alongside your dwarf apple tree can help enhance its growth and overall health, while also keeping pests and diseases at bay. By choosing the right plants to companion with your apple trees, you can create a healthy and thriving ecosystem that benefits both your garden and your fruit harvest.