The proper use of places under fruit trees is a real challenge for many gardeners. Properly selectedplants to be planted under fruit treeswill not only grow well in these places, but also may have a beneficial effect on the yielding of fruit trees. Meet the7 best plants to plant under fruit trees !
What can be planted under fruit trees - infographic
Fig. © Łukasz Krypel
For planting from fruit trees , plants that grow well in the shade and have low nutritional requirements (those that will not compete with fruit trees for nutrients taken from the soil) are suitable.
For this type of planting, it is also worth choosingplants that have a positive effect on the growth and yielding of fruit trees , i.e. those that, by emitting aromatic smells, attract useful pollinating insects to the vicinity of trees and at the same time scare away pests of fruit trees. Examples of such plants are presented below.
Note!Remember that some plants may not be planted under fruit trees. The unfavorable neighborhood for fruit trees are buttercup plants, potatoes and wormwood.
7 best plants to plant under fruit trees
1. Narrow-leaved lavender
Lavender (Lavendula officinalis) is an evergreen perennial that is greatunder fruit trees . The scent of lavender flowers deters ants and aphids, and lavender flowers are extremely decorative.
2. Horseradish
Horseradish (Armoracia rusticana) is aplant that can be planted under fruit treesas it prevents moniliosis (brown rot). In addition, horseradish does not require cover from frost, it has strong roots and grows rapidly. It is worth providing it with a constantly moist substrate. Then also the leaves and roots of the horseradish will taste the best.
3. Nasturtium
Nasturtium (Tropaeolum) is a one-yearplant that is worth planting under fruit trees , because its scent deters the cotton plant aphid - the aphid that attacks apple trees and pear trees. Nasturtium grows best in a sunny position, but it will also do well in the shade of the crown of a fruit tree.
4. Tansy
Tansy (Tanacetum vulgare) is a perennial that can be planted under fruit trees as it helps to scare away unwanted pests attacking fruit plants. Additionally, tansy can be used to prepare decoctions, extracts or liquid manure that will help fight fungal diseases of fruit trees.Tansy has no special requirements, so it will cope well under fruit trees.
5. Tagetes scattered
The intense scent of Tagetes patula makes it easy to recognize among flowering annuals. This fragrance makes it a perfect plant under fruit trees. It will then become a shield for pests attacking fruit trees. In addition, it destroys nematodes harmful to plants in the soil and generally has a positive effect on the growth of fruit trees.
What to plant under fruit trees?
Fig. depositphotos.com
6. Garlic
Garlic (Allium) is another plant that can be planted under fruit trees as it protects them from pests and fungal diseases. You can plant both common garlic and ornamental garlic. Interestingly, garlic is also effective in the fight against moles and voles.
7. Peppermint
Peppermint (Mentha piperita) is known in horticulture due to its easy cultivation and wide application. It can be planted under fruit trees because it emits volatile compounds that scare away pests of fruit trees. Peppermint is easy to grow and requires only sandy loam soil and a slightly shaded site.
MSc Eng. Joanna Białowąs
