Companion Planting with Citrus
Citrus
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Citrus trees, which include oranges, lemons, limes, and grapefruits, require full sun, well-drained soil, and protection from frost. When selecting companion plants for citrus trees, consider those that share similar growing conditions and can provide a variety of textures, colors, and heights for a visually appealing display. Many companion plants can also improve the health and productivity of your citrus trees by attracting pollinators, repelling pests, or fixing nitrogen in the soil:
Flowering plants: Attract pollinators and add color to your citrus grove with flowering plants like Lavandula (lavender), Salvia (sage), or Echinacea (coneflower).
Herbs: Plant aromatic herbs like Rosmarinus (rosemary), Thymus (thyme), or Mentha (mint) near your citrus trees to help repel pests and create a culinary garden.
Groundcovers: Low-growing plants like Trifolium (clover), Alyssum, or Arachis pintoi (perennial peanut) can fill in gaps around citrus trees, suppress weeds, and help fix nitrogen in the soil.
Nitrogen-fixing plants: Leguminous plants like Crotalaria (sunn hemp), Lupinus (lupines), or Vicia (vetch) can improve soil fertility by fixing nitrogen, benefiting your citrus trees.
Pest-repellent plants: Incorporate pest-repellent plants like Tagetes (marigolds), Alliums (onions, garlic), or Calendula (pot marigold) to deter pests and reduce the need for chemical treatments.
Pollinator-friendly plants: Encourage pollination by planting pollinator-friendly plants like Monarda (bee balm), Asclepias (milkweed), or Agastache (hyssop) near your citrus trees.
Subshrubs: Pair citrus trees with small shrubs like Lantana, Spiraea (spirea), or Fuchsia for a layered, low-maintenance garden.
Ornamental grasses: Add texture, movement, and contrast to your citrus planting with grasses like Pennisetum (fountain grass), Miscanthus (maiden grass), or Stipa (feather grass).
Tropical plants: If you live in a warm climate, create a tropical feel around your citrus trees by planting companion plants like Heliconia, Strelitzia (bird of paradise), or Alocasia (elephant ear).
Vegetables: Some vegetables like Capsicum (peppers), Solanum melongena (eggplant), or tomatoes can grow well alongside citrus trees, provided they have enough sun and water.
When choosing companion plants for citrus trees, be sure to consider the specific growing conditions of your garden, such as sun exposure, soil type, and climate. This will help ensure that all of your plants thrive together. Additionally, avoid planting companions too close to the trunk of the citrus tree to prevent root competition and ensure proper air circulation.
Now you know What to plant with Citrus
