Planting Trees Near Black Walnut Trees
Black walnut trees are beautiful and majestic trees, but they can be challenging to grow other plants around due to a substance they produce called juglone. Juglone is toxic to many plants, including most fruit and vegetable plants. However, there are many trees that are tolerant of juglone, and with careful planning, you can create a beautiful and thriving landscape around your black walnut tree.
What is Juglone?
Juglone is a natural chemical produced by black walnut trees. It is released from the roots of the tree and can travel through the soil to affect nearby plants. Juglone can damage or even kill plants by interfering with their ability to take up water and nutrients.
Symptoms of Juglone Poisoning
Symptoms of juglone poisoning in plants include:
- Wilting leaves
- Stunted growth
- Yellowing leaves
- Leaf drop
- Dieback of branches
How to Avoid Juglone Poisoning
The best way to avoid juglone poisoning is to plant juglone-tolerant trees and plants around your black walnut tree. You should also avoid planting any new trees or plants within 50 to 80 feet of a mature black walnut tree.
Juglone-Tolerant Trees
There are many trees that are tolerant of juglone, including:
- Oak trees
- Hickory trees
- Black locust
- Eastern redbud
- Hackberry
- Canadian hemlock
- Red cedar
- Maple trees
- Pagoda dogwood
- Poplar
Planting Trees Near Black Walnuts
When planting trees near black walnuts, it is important to choose juglone-tolerant species. You should also plant the trees far enough away from the black walnut tree to avoid root competition.
- Mature black walnut trees: Plant juglone-tolerant trees at least 50 to 80 feet away from mature black walnut trees.
- Immature black walnut trees: You can plant short-lived trees of any kind near immature black walnut trees. Once the black walnut tree matures, you will need to replace the short-lived trees with juglone-tolerant trees.
Tips for Planting Trees Near Black Walnuts
- Choose juglone-tolerant tree species.
- Plant trees far enough away from the black walnut tree to avoid root competition.
- Water trees regularly, especially during dry spells.
- Mulch around trees to help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
- Fertilize trees according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Can You Grow Fruit Trees Near Black Walnuts?
Yes, you can grow fruit trees near black walnuts, but you need to choose juglone-tolerant varieties. Some good choices include:
- Quince
- Peach
- Nectarine
- Persimmon
- Cherry
- Plum
Conclusion
With careful planning, you can create a beautiful and thriving landscape around your black walnut tree. By choosing juglone-tolerant trees and plants, and following the tips above, you can avoid juglone poisoning and enjoy the beauty of your black walnut tree for years to come.
