There are many plants that grow great as companions to your lemon trees. You can try a range of flowers like violas, society garlic and African daisy as well as herbs and fruit trees. Always plant outside of the lemon tree root zone or plant herbs in pots and place them nearby. Pots can help to shade the soil around your lemon tree and keep water in your soil for longer.
This article will explore my favorite lemon tree companion plants for you to try at home. Follow these easy tips and great lemon tree companion ideas that I have had success with at home.
One of the main benefits of companion planting with lemon trees is improved pollination. Many plants attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, which can help your lemon trees produce more fruit. Companion planting can also help control pests and diseases, as some plants repel harmful insects or attract predators that feed on them. Additionally, some companion plants can help improve soil health, conserve water, and provide shade or support for your lemon trees. In the following sections, we’ll look at some of the best companion plants for lemon trees and how to grow them.
Key Takeaways
- Companion planting can help your lemon trees grow stronger, healthier, and more productive.
- Companion planting with lemon trees can improve pollination, control pests and diseases, and improve soil fertility and health and water conservation.
- Herbs, flowering plants, and vegetables and fruits are some of the best companion plants for lemon trees.
1. Violas
My favorite companion plant to my lemon trees are violas. These are beautiful flowers that can be planted in fall and will grow all winter into spring in mild areas. They grow hundreds of tiny flowers which attract bees to help to pollinate your lemon tree.
You can plant them outside of the lemon tree root zone and they will creep across the ground without interfering with the lemon tree roots. They form a fantastic ground cover to keep weeds away and will shade the soil to keep it moist for longer.
2. Society Garlic
Society garlic is a great companion to lemon trees. The garlic smell will help to keep insects away from your lemon tree and the bright purple flowers will attract bees. The pollinating insects attracted by the society garlic will visit your lemon tree to help to pollinate the flowers and set the fruit.
3. African daisy
African daisy are a great flower to plant near your lemon tree. They grow in low water conditions and will cover the ground to protect the soil and the bright flowers will attract bees. African daisies or Osteospermum can become a weed in some areas so always choose a new hybrid which won’t self-seed.
Plant African daisy away from the root zone of your lemon tree but within a few meters so encourage the bees.
4. Plectranthus
Plectranthus are a great new plant that I have started to grow in my garden to attract bees. They grow large, purple flowers in spring and summer which will match perfectly with the flowering time of lemon trees. The bees will come to visit the flowers and will help to pollinate your lemon trees.
5. Gaura
Gaura or butterfly bush are a great addition to any garden but especially if you have a lemon tree. They form the perfect companion with the their tall flowers a beacon for bees. They will increase insect pollination and grow with almost not attention.
Plant gaura outside of the root zone of your lemon tree and you will get bright beautiful flowers in spring and summer.
6. Marigolds
Marigolds are a great companion for lemon trees. The large marigolds will deter nematodes which can grow in the ground and damage your lemon tree roots. Marigolds will shade the soil and attract bees. They are bright, pretty and a perfect match for your lemon tree.
These cheerful flowers are easy to grow and can help repel pests such as aphids, whiteflies, and nematodes. Marigolds also attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs and lacewings, which can help keep other pests in check. Plant marigolds around the base of your lemon tree or in pots nearby for best results.
7. Pansy
Pansies are a great summer flowering plant that is the perfect companion for your lemon tree. Fill in small gaps around your garden with small pansies grown for seedlings. Choose a large, ground covering pansy to protect the soil and attract bees. These ornamental plants are bright, colorful and will attract pollinating insects to your lemon tree.
10. Thyme
Thyme pairs perfectly with lemons and grow neatly outside of your lemon tree root zone. I am growing lemon thyme near my lemon tree which can be picked regularly to keep it small and neat. You can place thyme in pots throughout your garden or plant it in the soil. Just keep it 2-3 feet away from the root zone of the plant. You can even plant them in a nearby vegetable garden.
Edible plants like herbs are a great option for growing near your lemon tree. They are fast growing, and are easy to prune so they do not overtake your lemon tree.
11. Chives
Chives are a great companion for lemon trees and can deter pest insects. The strong smell of thyme can deter aphids and prevent leaf damage. Chives grow small and upright and won’t interfere with the growth of your lemon tree.
12. Rosemary
Rosemary is a good plant to grow in a garden with lemon trees. This drought hardy plant will make a great companion for your lemon tree and help to keep insects away. I find that rosemary can be a deterrent for pest insects. These perennial herbs will grow flowers in summer which will attract bees and help to pollinate your lemon tree.
Rosemary will need less water than your lemon tree so plant it in your yard but outside of the watering zone of your citrus.
15. Citrus Trees
A perfect companion for lemon trees are other citrus trees. They love the same amount of water, fertilizer and pruning schedule. I have planted limes and oranges with my lemon tree but you could also plant a mandarin, tangerine or clementine. Try blood orange or tangelo for something different to pair with your lemon tree.
16. Star Jasmine
Star jasmine is a great plant to have in your garden if you have a lemon tree. Star jasmine produces beautifully fragrant flowers in spring and fall and will help to attract bees to pollinate your lemon tree. They have sweet-smelling flowers that are great at attracting beneficial insects.
Plant star jasmine against a screen or trellis so it has somewhere to climb. These plants will grow easily with very little care and look great in your garden.
17. Strawberries
Strawberries are a great plant to keep in the garden with your lemon tree. Plant them in pots and surround your lemon tree with beautiful strawberries. In summer you will be picking lemons and strawberries at the same time. The flowers will attract bees and the pots can shade the soil.
Strawberries have shallow roots, which means they won’t compete with the lemon tree for nutrients. Additionally, strawberries are a low-growing plant, which means they won’t shade the lemon tree and reduce its access to sunlight. Strawberries also attract pollinators like bees and butterflies, which can help to improve the overall health of your garden.
18. Mango trees
Mango trees are a great companion plant for lemon trees if you live in a tropical or sub-tropical area. They love regular water, full sun and good, well-draining soil. You can water your mango and lemon tree at the same time and be picking the fruit off of both in summer.
19. Oregano
Oregano is one of my favorite ground covers and it work well with lemon trees. You can plant oregano in a pot and place it nearby your tree or grow it outside the root zone. Oregano will shade the soil and is delicious to pick any time of year. Oregano prefers less water than lemon trees so is a great water wise ground cover to plant nearby.
20. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a great companion for lemon trees because they have similar nutrient requirements. While lemon trees need a lot of nitrogen, they also require phosphorus and potassium, which are also essential for tomato growth.
Tomatoes also have shallow roots, which means they won’t compete with the lemon tree’s roots for nutrients. Additionally, the strong scent of tomato leaves can help to repel pests that might otherwise damage the lemon tree.
21. Peppers
Peppers are a great companion for lemon trees because they have similar water requirements. Both peppers and lemon trees prefer well-drained, moist soil. Additionally, peppers have shallow roots, which means they won’t compete with the lemon tree for nutrients. Peppers are also a great source of vitamin C, which is essential for the health of both plants.
Overall, planting vegetables and fruits alongside your lemon tree can help to improve the health and productivity of your garden. Just be sure to choose plants that have similar nutrient and water requirements, and that won’t compete with the lemon tree for resources.
Benefits of Companion Planting with Lemon Trees
If you have a lemon tree, you might want to consider companion planting. Companion planting is the practice of growing different plants together for mutual benefits. In the case of lemon trees, companion planting can provide a range of benefits, including:
Improved Pollination
Lemon trees need pollinators to produce fruit. By planting companion plants that attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators, you can improve the pollination of your lemon tree. Good companion plants for lemon trees include lavender, borage, and marigolds.
Natural Pest Control
Companion planting can also help control pests that can damage your lemon tree. For example, planting garlic, chives, or onions near your lemon tree can help repel aphids. Similarly, planting nasturtiums can help repel whiteflies and squash bugs.
Enhanced Flavor
Planting certain herbs and vegetables near your lemon tree can enhance the flavor of your lemons. For example, planting basil, mint, or thyme near your lemon tree can give your lemons a unique flavor.
Weed Suppression
Companion planting can also help suppress weeds that can compete with your lemon tree for nutrients and water. For example, planting clover or vetch near your lemon tree can help suppress weeds and provide nitrogen to the soil.
Overall, companion planting with lemon trees can provide a range of benefits, from improved pollination to natural pest control. By choosing the right companion plants and planting them strategically, you can help your lemon tree thrive and produce delicious fruit.
Companion Planting for Pest Control
Companion planting can help control pests naturally and reduce the need for harmful pesticides. When choosing companion plants for your lemon tree, consider plants that have natural pest-repelling properties. Here are some examples:
- Marigolds: These bright flowers contain thiophenes, which repel harmful nematodes and other soil-borne pests. Plant marigolds around the base of your lemon tree to deter pests and add color to your garden.
- Basil: This herb is not only delicious but also has natural insect-repelling properties. Plant basil near your lemon tree to repel mosquitoes, flies, and other pests.
- Mint: This fragrant herb is a natural pest repellent and can deter ants, aphids, and other pests. Plant mint in a container near your lemon tree to keep pests away.
- Lavender: This beautiful plant has a strong fragrance that repels mosquitoes, flies, and moths. Plant lavender near your lemon tree to deter pests and add a lovely scent to your garden.
In addition to these plants, you can also consider planting companion plants that attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs, lacewings, and parasitic wasps. These insects can help control harmful pests like aphids, mealybugs, and scale insects.
By incorporating companion planting into your garden, you can reduce the need for harmful pesticides and create a more balanced ecosystem.
Companion Plants to Avoid
While there are many great companion plants for lemon trees, there are also some plants that you should avoid planting near them. These plants can compete with your lemon tree for resources, attract pests, or even release chemicals that can harm your lemon tree. Here are some plants to avoid:
1. Brassicas
Brassicas, such as broccoli, cabbage, and cauliflower, are not good companion plants for lemon trees. These plants can attract aphids and other pests that can harm your lemon tree. Additionally, brassicas are heavy feeders and can compete with your lemon tree for nutrients.
2. Fennel
Fennel is another plant that should be avoided when planting near lemon trees. Fennel releases chemicals that can inhibit the growth of other plants, including your lemon tree. Additionally, fennel can attract pests, such as aphids and slugs, which can harm your lemon tree.
3. Walnuts
Walnut trees release a chemical called juglone, which can be toxic to many plants, including lemon trees. If you have a walnut tree in your yard, it’s best to avoid planting lemon trees nearby.
4. Plants with Deep Roots
Plants with deep roots, such as oak trees and conifers, should also be avoided when planting near lemon trees. These plants can compete with your lemon tree for water and nutrients, which can stunt its growth. Additionally, the shade from these plants can prevent your lemon tree from getting the sunlight it needs to thrive.
By avoiding these plants, you can ensure that your lemon tree has the best chance of thriving. Instead, opt for companion plants that are good for your lemon tree, such as herbs, flowers, and other fruit trees.
Soil and Water Considerations for Companion Planting
When selecting companion plants for your lemon tree, it is important to consider the soil and water requirements of both the lemon tree and the companion plants. Lemon trees prefer well-draining soil that is slightly acidic with a pH between 5.5 and 6.5. They also require regular watering, especially during hot and dry weather conditions.
When choosing companion plants, it is important to select those that have similar soil and water requirements to the lemon tree. For example, herbs like thyme and oregano are great companion plants for lemon trees because they prefer well-draining soil and do not require excessive watering. On the other hand, plants like basil and parsley require more water and may not be the best choice for companion planting with lemon trees.
In addition to selecting companion plants with similar soil and water requirements, you can also choose plants that will help improve the soil quality and retain soil moisture. For example, legumes like clover and beans are nitrogen-fixing plants that can help with soil improvement. Plants with deep roots like comfrey and yarrow can also help break up compacted soil and improve drainage.
When it comes to watering, it is important to water your lemon tree and companion plants deeply and infrequently rather than shallowly and frequently. This will encourage deep root growth and help the plants become more drought-tolerant. Consider using a drip irrigation system or a soaker hose to water your lemon tree and companion plants slowly and deeply.
By selecting companion plants with similar soil and water requirements and using water-efficient practices, you can create a healthy and thriving ecosystem in your garden that benefits both your lemon tree and your companion plants.
Spacing and Layout for Lemon Tree Companion Planting
When it comes to companion planting for lemon trees, spacing and layout are crucial factors to consider. You want to make sure that your companion plants are not competing with the lemon tree for nutrients, water, and sunlight.
One popular method for spacing and layout is to plant companion plants under the lemon tree’s dripline. The dripline is the outer edge of the tree’s canopy, where rainwater drips off the leaves and branches. This area is where the tree’s feeder roots are most active, and it’s also where the most nutrients are available. By planting companion plants under the dripline, you can take advantage of this nutrient-rich area and help improve the soil quality.
Another important factor to consider is the size of the companion plants. You don’t want your companion plants to grow too tall and shade the lemon tree or compete for sunlight. Instead, choose plants that are shorter than the lemon tree and can thrive in partial shade. Some good options include herbs like parsley and thyme, as well as low-growing flowers like marigolds and nasturtiums.
In addition to spacing and layout, it’s also important to consider the specific needs of each companion plant. Some plants, like comfrey, are heavy feeders and can help improve soil quality, but they may also compete with the lemon tree for nutrients. Other plants, like lavender and rosemary, have insect-repelling properties that can help protect the lemon tree from pests.
Overall, when planning your lemon tree companion planting, make sure to choose plants that are compatible with the lemon tree’s needs and can thrive in the same growing conditions. With proper spacing and layout, you can create a harmonious garden that benefits both the lemon tree and its companion plants.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best companion plants for lemon trees in various climates?
The best companion plants for lemon trees depend on the climate you live in. In general, plants that thrive in similar conditions to lemon trees are good choices. For example, in warm and dry climates, you can plant drought-tolerant plants such as lavender, rosemary, and sage. In cooler climates, you can plant plants that prefer cooler temperatures such as parsley, thyme, and chives. Other good companion plants for lemon trees include marigolds, nasturtiums, and comfrey.
Can you grow herbs as companion plants with lemon trees, and if so, which are recommended?
Yes, herbs make great companion plants for lemon trees. Herbs such as basil, mint, and oregano are good choices because they repel pests and attract beneficial insects. They also have shallow roots that won’t compete with the lemon tree for nutrients.
Are there any specific companion plants that help with pest control on lemon trees?
Yes, there are several companion plants that can help with pest control on lemon trees. For example, marigolds repel aphids and whiteflies, while nasturtiums repel whiteflies and attract beneficial insects such as ladybugs. Other good choices include garlic, chives, and onions, which repel aphids and other pests.
Which vegetables make good companions for lemon trees, and why?
Vegetables that make good companions for lemon trees include tomatoes, peppers, and eggplants. These plants have similar soil and water requirements to lemon trees and can help shade the soil, reducing water evaporation. They also attract beneficial insects such as bees and butterflies.
What should be avoided when choosing companion plants for lemon trees?
When choosing companion plants for lemon trees, it’s important to avoid plants that have deep roots or that require a lot of water. This is because they can compete with the lemon tree for nutrients and water. Avoid planting plants such as corn, beans, and melons near lemon trees.
How does planting companions differ for lemon trees in pots compared to those in the ground?
When planting companions for lemon trees in pots, it’s important to choose plants that have similar soil and water requirements. You also need to make sure that the pot is large enough to accommodate both the lemon tree and its companions. In the ground, you need to make sure that the companion plants are not too close to the lemon tree, as they can compete for nutrients and water.
Summary
Lemon trees grow well with flowering plants other citrus trees and herbs. Keep your lemon tree happy by planting one or a few of the companion plants that I have had success with at home. Deter pest insects, attract bees and keep the soil protected with one of these easy to grow companion plants.
Happy growing.
I am an accredited practicing dietitian, experienced gardener and a dedicated cook. I love writing and sharing my experience so you can learn from my successes and mistakes.