What Veggies to Plant Under Lemon Trees

If you have a lemon tree in your backyard, you might be wondering what to plant underneath it. The right veggies can not only improve the soil quality, but also provide you with fresh, homegrown produce. Here are some options to consider:

Herbs

Herbs are an excellent choice to plant under lemon trees since they don't compete with the tree's roots for water and nutrients. Plus, many herbs have a citrusy flavor that complements lemon dishes. Some herbs to consider planting include:

Thyme

Oregano

Basil

Parsley

Rosemary

Leafy Greens

Leafy greens are another great option to plant under lemon trees. They don't require a lot of sun and appreciate a bit of shade, making them a perfect fit. Here are some leafy greens to consider planting:

Spinach

Lettuce

Kale

Arugula

Swiss chard

Root Vegetables

Root vegetables also make great companions to lemon trees. They grow well in the slightly acidic soil that lemon trees prefer and can benefit from the added shade. Here are some root vegetables to consider planting:

Carrots

Beets

Parsnips

Radishes

Turnips

Tomatoes

Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables to grow in a garden, and they can thrive under a lemon tree as well. They appreciate the dappled shade and can even benefit from the tree's leaves acting as a natural trellis. However, it's essential to make sure there's enough distance between the tomato plants and the lemon tree to avoid competition for nutrients.

Conclusion

Overall, there are many different veggies you can plant under lemon trees, from herbs to leafy greens to root vegetables and even tomatoes. Take care to select plants that will not compete with the lemon tree and that will thrive in the soil and light conditions present. With a little bit of planning and maintenance, you can enjoy both fresh lemons and homegrown veggies from your backyard.