Companion Plants for Seville Orange Trees

Companion planting is a practice in agriculture where certain plants are grown together to provide mutual benefits. When it comes to Seville orange trees (Citrus aurantium), there are several companion plants that can enhance their growth and overall health. These companion plants can attract beneficial insects, improve soil fertility, provide shade, and even deter pests. Let’s explore some of the best companion plants for Seville orange trees:

1. Marigolds (Tagetes spp.)

Marigolds are well-known for their pest-repellent properties. Planting marigolds around Seville orange trees can help deter nematodes, aphids, and whiteflies. These vibrant flowers also attract beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings, which feed on common citrus pests.

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2. Nasturtiums (Tropaeolum spp.)

Nasturtiums are excellent companion plants for Seville orange trees as they attract aphids and caterpillars away from the citrus trees. These colorful flowers also act as a trap crop, diverting pests from the oranges. Additionally, nasturtiums have shallow roots that help prevent soil erosion and improve moisture retention.

3. Chives (Allium schoenoprasum)

Chives are beneficial companion plants for Seville orange trees due to their ability to repel aphids, spider mites, and other common citrus pests. Their strong aroma acts as a natural deterrent, keeping these pests at bay. Chives also attract pollinators like bees, which can enhance fruit set in the orange trees.

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4. Comfrey (Symphytum spp.)

Comfrey is a dynamic accumulator, meaning it has deep roots that mine nutrients from the soil and make them available to other plants. Planting comfrey near Seville orange trees can help improve soil fertility by providing a nutrient-rich mulch when its leaves are cut and used as compost. Comfrey also acts as a living mulch, suppressing weeds and conserving soil moisture.

5. Sunflowers (Helianthus spp.)

Sunflowers are tall and robust companion plants that provide shade to Seville orange trees during hot summer months. This shade helps protect the citrus trees from excessive heat and sunburn. Sunflowers also attract beneficial insects like bees and parasitic wasps, which prey on citrus pests.

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By incorporating these companion plants around Seville orange trees, you can create a diverse and beneficial ecosystem in your agricultural setting. Remember to consider the specific needs and growing conditions of each plant to ensure successful companion planting.

Keywords: companion, plants, orange, seville, citrus, attract, beneficial, planting, comfrey