Photo: from open sources
The cause of a poor crop of apple, pear and plum trees can be… their neighbours
The reasons for poor fruit tree yields vary – and often it’s the weather. However, it happens that trees suffer because of their neighbours, because people are often unaware that some plants are incompatible and should be planted as far away from each other as possible, writes Homes and Gardens.
“Planting the ‘wrong’ companions can hinder the growth of fruit trees, reduce their yields and sometimes even damage the tree or the plant itself,” says horticultural trainer Robin Phelps.
The publication, with the help of experts, has identified which plants are enemies rather than friends of fruit trees.
1. Walnut
Walnuts should not be planted near apple, pear, peach or plum trees.
“Keep walnut trees at least 50 feet, and ideally more than 100 feet if space permits, away from apple, pear, peach, plum and cherry trees. Walnut trees produce the chemical juglone, which is toxic to many plants. Juglone is released through the roots, leaves and husks of walnuts and suppresses the growth of sensitive plants,” explained Phelps.
Fruit trees can grow too slowly, turn yellow and even die because of the nut’s neighbourhood, she said.
2. Fennel
There are many plants that do not want to grow near fennel, particularly citrus and stone fruit trees. To avoid problems, a distance of 10-12 feet should be enough, says an expert.
“Fennel is known to be allelopathic, meaning it releases chemicals that can inhibit the growth of neighbouring plants. It competes for nutrients and moisture, which can weaken young fruit trees,” Phelps explained.
Citrus and stone fruit trees are particularly sensitive. Fennel is best planted in a separate location, as far away from fruit trees as possible. This will benefit both.
3. Cabbage
The cause of poor tree growth may not only be due to toxins released by neighbours, but also competition for nutrients. It is for this reason that broccoli, white cabbage and cauliflower should be planted away from apple, pear and cherry trees.
“Cabbages take up essential nutrients from the soil, such as nitrogen and potassium, which fruit trees also need. They can also be attacked by pests such as aphids and bears, which also threaten fruit trees nearby. Planting cabbage near fruit trees creates unnecessary competition for resources and can weaken both trees and vegetables,” Phelps said.
She advises keeping at least 4 to 6 feet between trees and cabbage.
4. Tomatoes, aubergines, cucumbers
“Both tomatoes and fruit trees are susceptible to phytophthorosis, so keeping them close together can lead to a buildup of pathogens on the property, which will harm both plants,” explained farm manager Kristen Waddell.
Phytophthorosis is spread by fungal spores or bacteria and can be transferred from tomatoes to trees or vice versa by wind, animals and water, especially if infected material is not removed from the plants immediately, she said.
“Passlenuts (such as tomatoes and aubergines) can be a source of fungal diseases that affect fruit trees,” agreed garden designer Nicole Johnsey Burke.
5. Mint, oregano and other spicy herbs
These herbs compete with fruit trees for nutrients, especially those with shallow root systems. Burke advises against planting mint, oregano, and lemon balm next to them.
“Invasive, inedible plants, such as English ivy and Bermuda grass, should also be avoided under fruit trees. Young and dwarf trees and citrus trees are most susceptible,” she noted.
6. Sunflowers
Sunflower is not a good companion for fruit trees because of the chemical compounds it releases into the soil. In this way it is similar to the walnut.
Experts recommend keeping a distance of 3 feet between sunflowers and fruit trees. However, it is worth remembering that allelopathic chemicals can remain in the soil even after sunflowers are removed.
“Fruit trees tend to be sensitive to environmental factors, especially when they take root, so it is safer to simply avoid planting sunflowers near fruit trees. Also, some sunflower varieties can grow quite tall and reduce the amount of light or even airflow to the fruit tree,” says Burke.
7. Potatoes
The soil around fruit trees is best not disturbed, so root crops should also not be planted too close.
“Potatoes should never be grown near fruit trees. Fruit trees have delicate, often shallow root systems that can be severely damaged by soil disturbances such as digging up potatoes,” Kristen explained.
