Apple (Malus domestica )

FruitTrees

Apple trees benefit from companion planting by improving growth, deterring pests, and enhancing fruit production.

Good companions include chives and garlic, which repel aphids and codling moths, while clover and comfrey enrich the soil.

Marigolds and nasturtiums help keep pests away, and planting legumes nearby boosts nitrogen levels.

However, avoid planting apples near black walnut trees, as they release juglone, which can inhibit growth. Proper companion planting creates a healthier orchard with fewer pests and better yields.

https://open.spotify.com/episode/0E2pftHZkYaRYQM7eHOdP1?si=pC94pklnRWuB0jLs1J2klA

7 Companion Plants for Apple

  • Chives

    Chives are repelling pests like aphids and apple maggots while attracting pollinators. Their roots improve soil health, and when they die back, they enrich the soil with nutrients—giving your apple tree natural protection and a growth boost!

  • Comfrey

    Comfrey enriches the soil with natural fertilizer, suppresses weeds, prevents erosion, and attracts pollinators. With comfrey nearby, your apple tree enjoys healthier soil, better growth, and stronger fruit production!

  • Garlic The strong smell of garlic repels insects like aphids and mites, which can harm your apple tree. It can also help prevent diseases, like apple scab, with its natural antifungal properties.
  • Onion Onions provide invaluable benefits to neighboring plants by deterring pests with their strong aroma and improving soil structure with their fibrous roots.
  • Dill Dill’s feathery leaves and yellow flowers attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and hoverflies, which help control pests that might harm your tree. Dill also brings in pollinators, giving your apple blossoms a boost.
  • Mint Mint is a great companion for apple trees because it helps keep pests away. Its strong scent deters unwanted insects like aphids and ants, which can harm apple trees. Mint also attracts helpful pollinators, boosting fruit production.
  • Nasturtium

    Nasturtiums attract pollinators, boost apple production, and act as a natural pest trap for aphids. Their low-growing spread also suppresses weeds and retains soil moisture, offering extra protection for your apple tree.

2 Neighbor Plants to Avoid near Apple

  • Fennel

    This herb can inhibit the growth of apple trees due to allelopathic properties

  • Potatoes

    They belong to the nightshade family and are susceptible to similar diseases, such as blight, which can spread to the tree.