Companion planting involves growing specific plant species together to foster mutually beneficial relationships, enhancing plant health and productivity. For hazelnuts, this practice creates a supportive ecosystem, promoting vigorous growth and a healthier environment.
Why Companion Plant with Hazelnuts
Companion planting with hazelnuts offers several advantages for a resilient and productive growing environment. It improves soil health by adding nutrients and enhancing structure. Certain plants deter pests like aphids and leafrollers, while others attract beneficial insects, including pollinators, contributing to overall garden biodiversity. Strategic planting also suppresses weed growth, reducing competition for water and nutrients. This balanced approach helps hazelnuts thrive.
Key Categories of Companion Plants
Companion plants serve various functional roles within a hazelnut growing system:
Nitrogen fixers convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form usable by other plants, enriching the soil naturally.
Dynamic accumulators draw up nutrients from deeper soil layers, making them available to shallower-rooted plants as they decompose.
Pest deterrents release compounds or strong scents that repel common hazelnut pests.
Pollinator attractors encourage beneficial insects to visit the area, contributing to overall garden health.
Groundcovers suppress weeds and maintain soil moisture.
Recommended Companion Plants for Hazelnuts
Several plants offer distinct benefits when grown near hazelnuts. For improving soil fertility, nitrogen-fixing legumes like clover (including white and crimson clover), bush beans, lupines, fava beans, vetch, and alfalfa are excellent choices. Clover also acts as a groundcover, helping to suppress weeds and retain soil moisture.
Herbs like lavender, rosemary, and thyme provide strong fragrances that can deter pests, including aphids. Marigolds repel nematodes and various insects, also attracting pollinators. Garlic and onions can help deter squirrels. Comfrey, a dynamic accumulator, draws up deep soil nutrients like potassium and calcium, making them accessible to hazelnuts; its leaves can also be used as mulch. Currants (black and red) and yarrow, which also serves as a ground cover, can be grown with hazelnuts.
Plants to Avoid Near Hazelnuts
Certain plants should be kept away from hazelnuts to prevent negative interactions. Fennel, leeks, and beets are unsuitable companion plants. Vigorous growers like mint can spread aggressively and compete for resources if not contained. While hazelnuts tolerate juglone from black walnut trees, consider spacing and competition when interplanting with other large trees. Avoid plants highly susceptible to the same pests or diseases as hazelnuts to prevent problem spread.
Establishing Your Hazelnut Companion System
Establishing a hazelnut companion system requires careful planning and ongoing care. Consider the mature size of hazelnut plants (12-20 feet height and spread). Adequate spacing between hazelnuts and companions prevents root competition and ensures sufficient light. Hazelnuts prefer well-drained loam soil, but they are adaptable to various soil types and pH levels.
Prepare soil by sheet mulching with cardboard and adding wood chips to suppress weeds. When planting, ensure the hole accommodates the root structure, and avoid excessive soil amendments, as hazelnuts thrive in less fertile conditions. For maintenance, regularly observe plants to address issues. While hazelnuts are generally resilient once established, managing companion plant growth, especially taller varieties, may be necessary to limit competition for light and nutrients.