What to Plant in Full Sun Garden with Apple Tree

A garden that receives full sunlight is a perfect spot to plant your apple tree. But do you know what other plants you can add to create a beautiful and diverse garden? Here are some plant ideas that thrive in full sun and complement apple trees.

1. Berry Bushes

Berry bushes such as raspberry, blackberry, and blueberry are excellent companions to apple trees. Like apples, they require abundant sunlight to grow and produce fruit. Moreover, they can attract bees and other pollinators that can help pollinate apple blossoms and enhance fruit yield.

2. Herbaceous Flowers

Herbaceous flowers add color, texture, and fragrance to your full sun garden. Some popular options include marigold, petunia, lavender, and daisy. These flowers can attract beneficial insects like ladybugs, lacewings, and hoverflies that can help control apple pests such as aphids and mites.

3. Leafy Greens

Leafy greens like lettuce, kale, and spinach grow well in full sun and benefit from the shade provided by apple trees. They can also add variety to your diet and complement your apple harvest. When planting leafy greens, make sure to provide adequate water and nutrients to prevent them from competing with your apple tree.

4. Root Vegetables

Root vegetables like carrot, beet, and radish are another great option to grow in a full sun garden with apple trees. They can benefit from the loose, well-draining soil that apple trees need and can also help break up compacted soil. Plant root vegetables in the outer rings of your apple tree drip-line to avoid damaging tree roots.

5. Ornamental Grasses

If you're looking to add texture and movement to your garden, consider planting ornamental grasses like fountain grass, feather grass, or pampas grass. These grasses can thrive in full sun and require minimal maintenance. They can also provide habitat for beneficial insects and birds that can enrich your garden ecosystem.

Conclusion

Planting a variety of plants in your full sun garden with apple trees can bring many benefits, from enhancing fruit yield to attracting beneficial insects and adding visual interest. However, it's important to choose plants that complement apple trees and don't compete for resources. With some careful planning and attention, you can create a thriving and diverse garden that combines the beauty and utility of different plant species.