Meyer lemon trees are becoming increasingly popular among gardeners and home growers. Despite their smaller size, they produce a large amount of fragrant, juicy lemons. Because of this, they are versatile and can be used in a variety of ways. But what should you plant with your meyer lemon tree? Here are some tips to help you get started.
The most important factor to consider when choosing what to plant alongside a meyer lemon tree is the climate it’s in. If you have a warm climate, then you can go for tropical fruits like bananas, pineapples, or mangoes. If you have a cooler climate, then you should opt for hardier fruits such as apples, pears, and peaches. It’s also important to ensure that the plants you choose to grow alongside your meyer lemon tree share similar sunlight and water requirements.
Herbs are also great to plant with meyer lemon trees. Basil, thyme, sage, oregano, and lavender are all excellent companions for this type of citrus tree. They grow well together and will also add flavor and fragrance to your garden. Planting herbs around your meyer lemon tree also helps prevent pests from devouring its fruits.
It’s also important to consider other plants you can use to spruce up your space. For instance, if you have an empty spot, then you can fill it with flowers such as daisies, marigolds, geraniums or petunias. For ground cover, consider creeping thyme or Oriental sedge. This can also help prevent weeds from taking over.
Finally, if you want to add height to your planting arrangement, then consider adding a small tree. If you live in a warmer climate, you can choose a cold-hardy variety like an olive or avocado tree. If you live in a cooler climate, you can opt for a peach or plum tree. These trees pair well with meyer lemon trees and will provide extra shade and protection for the smaller citrus tree.
Plants for Structural Interests
In addition to providing a supporting role to the meyer lemon tree, other plants can also serve as points of interest. Consider planting shrubs such as hibiscus and roses to provide additional color and texture. Low groundcovers and ornamental grasses bring movement and visual interest to your design. If you want to add a vertical element, try planting a flowering vine like jasmine or clematis. These plants will trail up and around the meyer lemon tree and provide an extra layer of interest to your garden.
Plants for Shade and Shelter
Meyer lemons do best when planted in a sunny spot with plenty of air circulation. To ensure that your tree has enough sun and protection, consider adding other plants that will create a pleasant microclimate for your meyer lemon tree. For example, if you want to shield your tree from the sun, then plant a sturdy yet shady tree nearby. If you live in a windy area, then you can use smaller shrubs to provide a wind break. This will also keep your meyer lemon tree safe from cold temperatures and strong winds.
Companion Planting
In addition to providing support to your meyer lemon tree, companion planting can also make a difference when it comes to maximizing the output of your lemon crop. This type of gardening practice involves interspersing other perennial plants or annuals with your meyer lemon tree. For example, planting nasturtiums can attract bees, which in turn will help with pollination. Planting dill or marigolds can also help to repel pests. An added bonus is that these plants can be harvested and used in your kitchen as well.
Fruiting Trees
If you live in an area with a warm climate, then consider planting other fruiting trees in your garden along with the meyer lemon tree. This will provide you with an array of delicious and fragrant fruits for years to come. Some trees to consider include oranges, pomegranates, limes, apples, and figs. These can be planted in the same location as your meyer lemon tree or in a separate area of your garden. Just make sure that they have enough space to spread out and receive ample sunlight.
Preparing the Soil
Making sure that you have the right soil conditions for your meyer lemon tree is also essential. Ideally, you should use soil that is well-draining and gently acidic. You can also add bark chips or compost to the soil to help promote drainage and provide additional nutrients to your plants. Once you’ve created the perfect soil conditions, then you can plant your meyer lemon tree and its companion plants.
