Citrus Companion Plants: The Benefits and How to Grow Them

What Are Citrus Companion Plants?

Growing citrus trees is a rewarding experience but requires some effort to ensure the best yield possible. One way to support your citrus trees is by planting companion plants that provide benefits such as nitrogen fixation, pest control, or improved soil quality.

Companion planting is an ancient technique that involves planting crops together to support each other's growth. In the case of citrus trees, companion plants can provide a range of benefits such as attracting beneficial insects, improving soil fertility, and providing shade.

The Benefits of Citrus Companion Plants

Companion planting can provide several benefits for citrus trees, including:

Nitrogen Fixation

Legume plants such as clover, beans, and peas can fix nitrogen in the soil, which helps to promote the growth of citrus trees. Nitrogen is one of the most important nutrients for plants, and having a good source of it in the soil can significantly improve tree health and yield.

Pest Control

Certain plants can act as natural pest repellents, making them ideal companions for citrus trees. For example, marigolds and calendula can help to repel pests such as aphids and whiteflies, while basil and mint can deter ants and flies.

Improved Soil Quality

Plants such as comfrey and yarrow have deep root systems that can help to break up compacted soil and improve drainage. This makes it easier for citrus tree roots to grow and access nutrients.

Shade

Citrus trees need plenty of sunlight to grow and produce fruit, but too much direct sunlight can cause sunburn and damage. Companion plants such as passionfruit or climbing beans can provide shade for citrus trees while also adding a vertical element to your garden.

How to Grow Citrus Companion Plants

When selecting companion plants for your citrus trees, it's essential to consider the needs of both plants. Here are some tips for growing citrus companion plants:

Choose Plants that Complement Citrus Trees

Companion plants should not compete with citrus trees for nutrients or water. Instead, choose plants that complement citrus trees by providing benefits such as pest control, nitrogen fixation, or shade.

Consider Watering Needs

Different plants have different water requirements, so make sure to choose companion plants that have similar watering needs to your citrus trees.

Plant at the Right Time

Planting time is crucial for companion plants. Some plants do better when planted in the same season as citrus trees, while others prefer to be planted during the off-season.

Group Plants Together

Grouping companion plants together can create microclimates that benefit citrus trees. For example, planting a group of marigolds around a citrus tree can help to repel pests and attract beneficial insects.

Some Popular Citrus Companion Plants

Here are some popular citrus companion plants and their benefits:

Clover

Clover is a legume plant that fixes nitrogen in the soil, helping to improve soil fertility and promote the growth of citrus trees.

Basil

Basil is a herb that can help to repel ants and flies, making it an ideal companion for citrus trees.

Passionfruit

Passionfruit vines can provide shade for citrus trees while also adding a vertical element to your garden.

Comfrey

Comfrey has deep roots that can help to break up compacted soil and improve drainage, making it easier for citrus tree roots to grow and access nutrients.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can any plant be a companion plant for citrus trees?

No, not all plants are suitable as companion plants for citrus trees. Companion plants should complement citrus trees by providing benefits such as nitrogen fixation, pest control, or improved soil quality.

2. Is it possible to grow companion plants in pots?

Yes, it is possible to grow companion plants in pots. This is especially useful if you have limited space or want to move the plants around to create different microclimates.

3. Can companion plants harm citrus trees?

In most cases, companion plants will not harm citrus trees. However, it's essential to choose plants that do not compete with citrus trees for nutrients or water.

4. How many companion plants should I plant per citrus tree?

The number of companion plants you should plant per citrus tree depends on several factors, including the size of your garden, the types of plants you choose, and the needs of your citrus trees. A good rule of thumb is to plant one companion plant per citrus tree.

5. When is the best time to plant citrus companion plants?

The best time to plant citrus companion plants depends on the specific plant species. Some plants do better when planted in the same season as citrus trees, while others prefer to be planted during the off-season.