Although a lemon tree can be delightful to have in a garden, it can become a bit of a lonely growing experience without compatible neighbors. Here are the best companion plants to have with a lemon tree in order to bring out their growth potential and to promote a healthy lawn.
If you want to add some color to your lemon tree, flowering plants are the best option. Generally, flowering plants with bright bright colors like yellow and white will provide the best contrast and will highlight the unique look of the citrus tree. An awesome option is the desert marigold, a plant that is fast growing and very attractive. Beyond its beauty, marigolds are great for repelling pests like aphids, so placing them near your lemon tree is a great way to keep the tree healthy.
Another great option to pair with a lemon tree are herbs, especially herbs with a fragrant aroma. Lavender, rosemary, thyme, sage, parsley, and oregano are all good choices, as they will produce a pleasant smell when the lemon tree blooms. The herbs will provide texture and color to the lemon tree, providing a very appealing look to the garden.
If you are aiming for a low maintenance leafy look, you might want to opt for ground cover plants as your companion. Hostas, periwinkle, and creeping phlox are all great options because they will help to keep down weeds and provide moisture. They are also able to survive well in both sunny and partially shady areas.
Finally, some vegetables are also good companions to the lemon tree. Squash and eggplant are both fast-growing and will thrive near the lemon tree. Additionally, they can provide a tasty reward for all your hard work!
How to Plant them Near Lemon Trees
Since there are many different plants to choose from when planning to pair with a lemon tree, it is important to consider which type of plant is best for the conditions in your garden. The lemon tree will most likely require more hours of direct sunlight than most other plants, so it is important to factor in their needs when deciding which ones to plant around them. Additionally, it’s important to keep in mind that different plants need different amounts of water, so make sure to choose plants that have similar water requirements.
When planting the companion plants, you should also keep in mind the possible future growth of the plants. Try to create a plan that will allow the plants to grow and expand without restricting or hampering the growth of the lemon tree. This can be done by planting the companions a few feet away from the tree, rather than right next to it.
In terms of soil condition and fertilizer, you should use a soil that has a good drainage system. Lemon trees prefer to stay away from overly wet soil, so you should look for soils that are light and airy, yet are still rich in nutrients. Also, when fertilizing you should use a fertilizer that is especially suited for lemon trees, as this will help to encourage their growth and make them more fruitful.
Benefits of Adding Companion Plants
Not only do companion plants provide a beautiful aesthetic to the garden, but they also have several other benefits. They provide protection from pests, improve pollination, provide shelter from the wind, and can even shade the ground from harsh sunlight. Additionally, companion plants are great for improving soil quality, as adding more plants to the area will help to aerate the soil and bring out its nutrients.
Furthermore, companion plants can help improve the growth of the lemon tree, as they can supplement its nutrition requirements. Placing companion plants near the lemon tree will help to enrich the soil and provide essential nutrients, leading to a healthier and more productive lemon tree.
This phenomenon was coined biodynamic farming, and is a valuable asset to help boost the garden’s overall health. By investing in multiple types of companion plants, you will see an increase in fruit production, while at the same time, reducing the need for pesticides or other chemical treatments.
Companion Planting Tips
To ensure that your companion plants are successful, it is important to use the right information and knowledge. Start by researching the plants you are interested in adding and make sure that they are capable of surviving in the same conditions as your lemon tree. Additionally, research their potential to spread, as some plants can take over an area quickly, which can cause damage to other plants.
You should also use mulch to help keep them healthy. Mulch will reduce the weed population and will help keep the soil cool and moist. Lastly, it is essential to keep a watchful eye on the area and make sure that the plants are not competing with each other. If one is found to be taking too much of the soil’s nutrients, it might be necessary to move it to a different location.
Things to Avoid when Planting Companions
When planting companion plants for a lemon tree, there are also certain things that one should avoid. First, try to stay away from invasive species, as these will take over the area and can easily cause damage to your lemon tree. Additionally, you should avoid plants with high water requirements, as they can harm your lemon tree. Finally, be sure to check with your local extension office to see if there are any area-specific considerations related to selecting companion plants.
Regular Upkeep and Maintenance of Companions
In order for companion plants to thrive and be beneficial to the garden, it is important to take care of them regularly. This includes activities such as weeding, fertilizing, pruning, and mulching. Additionally, if any of the plants become sick, be sure to remove them and discard them so that they cannot spread their diseases.
It is also important to provide the appropriate amount of sun and water to the companion plants. When watering, make sure the soil is evenly moist, and avoid overwatering as this can lead to root rot. Finally, be sure to keep an eye out for pests, as some can quickly spread and become a huge problem.
