Best Apple Tree Companion Plants for a Thriving Orchard

Looking for the best companion plants for apple trees?

Improve your backyard orchard with these apple tree landscaping ideas.

Boost your apple tree care and support the growth of your apple trees with these beneficial companions.

Read on to create a thriving and beautiful backyard orchard.

23 Best Companion Plants That Grow Under Apple Trees

1. Comfrey

Ideal for apple trees, Comfrey helps suppress weeds and accumulates nutrients, enriching the soil with potassium and other minerals.

Its deep roots improve soil structure, and its flowers attract pollinators, boosting apple tree productivity.

Comfrey’s rapid growth and abundant biomass make it an excellent mulch maker.

USDA Growing Zone: 4-9
Average Mature Size: 24-48 inches tall, 24-36 inches wide
Growth Rate: Fast
Type: Perennial
Key Benefits: Weed Suppressor, Nutrient Accumulator, Mulch Maker, Attract Pollinators
Botanical Name: Symphytum officinale

2. Chives

Perfect for apple tree companions, chives repel pests like aphids and apple scab, enhancing tree health.

Their attractive purple flowers lure beneficial insects and pollinators, boosting fruit production.

Chives are easy to grow and add a culinary bonus to your garden.

USDA Growing Zone: 3-9
Average Mature Size: 12-24 inches tall, 12 inches wide
Growth Rate: Moderate
Type: Perennial
Key Benefits: Pest Repeller, Attract Pollinators
Botanical Name: Allium schoenoprasum

3. Yarrow

Beneficial for apple trees, Yarrow attracts pollinators and beneficial insects, improving tree health and productivity.

Its deep roots enhance soil structure and nutrient uptake, while its aromatic foliage repels pests. Yarrow also makes an excellent mulch when cut back.

USDA Growing Zone: 3-9
Average Mature Size: 24-36 inches tall, 18-24 inches wide
Growth Rate: Fast
Type: Perennial
Key Benefits: Attract Pollinators, Pest Repeller, Nutrient Accumulator, Mulch Maker
Botanical Name: Achillea millefolium

4. Garlic

Great for apple trees, Garlic repels pests like aphids, apple scab, and borers, promoting healthier growth.

Its strong scent deters deer and rabbits, while its flowers attract pollinators. Easy to grow, Garlic also provides a flavorful addition to your garden.

USDA Growing Zone: 3-8
Average Mature Size: 18-24 inches tall, 6-12 inches wide
Growth Rate: Moderate
Type: Perennial (grown as an annual)
Key Benefits: Pest Repeller, Attract Pollinators
Botanical Name: Allium sativum

5. Lavender

Lavender (Lavandula angustifolia) growing around a tree

Enhancing apple tree growth, Lavender attracts pollinators and beneficial insects, boosting fruit production.

Its aromatic foliage repels pests like moths and aphids, while its deep roots improve soil health. Lavender’s beautiful blooms also add a touch of color to the garden.

USDA Growing Zone: 5-9
Average Mature Size: 12-36 inches tall, 18-24 inches wide
Growth Rate: Moderate
Type: Perennial
Key Benefits: Attract Pollinators, Pest Repeller, Nutrient Accumulator
Botanical Name: Lavandula angustifolia

6. Mint

Mint is an excellent companion for apple trees, repelling pests like aphids and ants with its strong scent.

Its vigorous growth helps suppress weeds, and it attracts beneficial insects and pollinators. Mint is also a versatile herb that adds culinary value to your garden.

USDA Growing Zone: 3-8
Average Mature Size: 12-24 inches tall, 18-24 inches wide
Growth Rate: Fast
Type: Perennial
Key Benefits: Pest Repeller, Weed Suppressor, Attract Pollinators
Botanical Name: Mentha spp.

7. Daffodil

Daffodils make excellent companions for apple trees, deterring rodents and deer with their toxic bulbs.

Their early spring blooms attract pollinators, enhancing apple tree productivity. Daffodils are low-maintenance and add vibrant color to your garden.

USDA Growing Zone: 3-9
Average Mature Size: 6-20 inches tall, 6-12 inches wide
Growth Rate: Moderate
Type: Perennial
Key Benefits: Pest Repeller, Attract Pollinators
Botanical Name: Narcissus spp.

8. Tansy

Tansy is a beneficial companion for apple trees, repelling pests like ants, beetles, and aphids.

Its bright yellow flowers attract pollinators and beneficial insects, promoting healthy tree growth. Tansy’s hardy nature and ability to improve soil health make it a great addition to any orchard.

USDA Growing Zone: 4-8
Average Mature Size: 36-60 inches tall, 12-18 inches wide
Growth Rate: Fast
Type: Perennial
Key Benefits: Pest Repeller, Attract Pollinators, Nutrient Accumulator
Botanical Name: Tanacetum vulgare

9. Marigold

Marigold plants growing under an apple tree

Ideal for apple trees, Marigolds repel pests such as nematodes and aphids with their strong scent.

Their bright flowers attract pollinators, enhancing fruit production. Marigolds are easy to grow and help improve soil health, making them a valuable addition to any garden.

USDA Growing Zone: 2-11
Average Mature Size: 6-36 inches tall, 6-24 inches wide
Growth Rate: Fast
Type: Annual
Key Benefits: Pest Repeller, Attract Pollinators, Soil Health Improver
Botanical Name: Tagetes spp.

10. Sweet Cicely

Sweet Cicely is a wonderful companion for apple trees, attracting pollinators with its delicate white flowers.

It helps improve soil health by accumulating nutrients and has a sweet aroma that deters pests. Easy to grow, Sweet Cicely also adds a touch of elegance to your garden.

USDA Growing Zone: 3-7
Average Mature Size: 24-36 inches tall, 18-24 inches wide
Growth Rate: Moderate
Type: Perennial
Key Benefits: Attract Pollinators, Nutrient Accumulator, Pest Repeller
Botanical Name: Myrrhis odorata

11. Dogwood

White flowering Dogwood tree (Cornus spp)

Dogwood trees are excellent companions for apple trees, attracting pollinators with their beautiful blooms.

They enhance the landscape with their striking seasonal colors and provide shade, which helps maintain soil moisture. Dogwoods also support beneficial insects, promoting overall tree health.

USDA Growing Zone: 5-9
Average Mature Size: 15-40 feet tall, 15-40 feet wide
Growth Rate: Moderate
Type: Perennial
Key Benefits: Attract Pollinators, Provide Shade, Support Beneficial Insects
Botanical Name: Cornus spp.

12. Lupines

Vibrant spikes of Lupine flowers attract pollinators and beneficial insects, enhancing apple tree productivity.

Their nitrogen-fixing ability improves soil fertility, and deep roots help with soil structure. Easy to grow, Lupines are a colorful and beneficial addition to your garden.

USDA Growing Zone: 4-8
Average Mature Size: 12-48 inches tall, 12-24 inches wide
Growth Rate: Moderate
Type: Perennial
Key Benefits: Nitrogen Fixer, Attract Pollinators, Improve Soil Structure
Botanical Name: Lupinus spp.

13. Coriander

Coriander is an excellent companion for apple trees, repelling pests like aphids and spider mites.

Its flowers attract pollinators, improving fruit set and yield. Fast-growing and aromatic, Coriander also adds culinary value to your garden.

USDA Growing Zone: 2-11
Average Mature Size: 12-24 inches tall, 6-12 inches wide
Growth Rate: Fast
Type: Annual
Key Benefits: Pest Repeller, Attract Pollinators
Botanical Name: Coriandrum sativum

14. Borage

Boosting apple tree productivity, Borage attracts pollinators with its star-shaped blue flowers.

This hardy plant enriches the soil by accumulating nutrients. With fast growth and edible leaves, Borage is a versatile and beneficial addition to your garden.

USDA Growing Zone: 2-11
Average Mature Size: 18-36 inches tall, 12-24 inches wide
Growth Rate: Fast
Type: Annual
Key Benefits: Attract Pollinators, Nutrient Accumulator
Botanical Name: Borago officinalis

15. Nasturtium

Enhancing apple tree health, Nasturtium repels pests like aphids and whiteflies while attracting pollinators.

Its bright flowers add vibrant color to the garden, and the leaves are edible, adding a peppery flavor to dishes. Nasturtium is also known for its rapid growth and soil-improving qualities.

USDA Growing Zone: 9-11 (grown as an annual in most zones)
Average Mature Size: 12-18 inches tall, 12-24 inches wide
Growth Rate: Fast
Type: Annual
Key Benefits: Pest Repeller, Attract Pollinators, Edible, Soil Improver
Botanical Name: Tropaeolum majus

16. Chamomile

Chamomile benefits apple trees by attracting pollinators and beneficial insects while repelling pests.

Its fragrant flowers and foliage improve soil health and can be used for making soothing teas.

Chamomile’s fast growth and easy maintenance make it a delightful addition to any garden.

USDA Growing Zone: 3-9
Average Mature Size: 8-24 inches tall, 8-12 inches wide
Growth Rate: Fast
Type: Annual or Perennial (depending on the variety)
Key Benefits: Attract Pollinators, Pest Repeller, Soil Improver
Botanical Name: Matricaria chamomilla or Chamaemelum nobile

17. Fennel

Fennel is a fantastic companion for apple trees, attracting beneficial insects and pollinators with its aromatic yellow flowers.

It repels pests like aphids and slugs, contributing to a healthier orchard. Deep roots of Fennel also improve soil structure, enhancing overall garden health.

USDA Growing Zone: 4-9
Average Mature Size: 4-6 feet tall, 1-2 feet wide
Growth Rate: Fast
Type: Perennial (grown as an annual in some zones)
Key Benefits: Attract Pollinators, Pest Repeller, Improve Soil Structure
Botanical Name: Foeniculum vulgare

18. Basil

Perfect for apple trees, Basil is a great companion plant as it repels pests like aphids, mites, and mosquitoes, ensuring a healthier orchard.

Its aromatic leaves attract pollinators, boosting fruit production. Easy to grow and versatile, Basil also adds culinary value to your garden.

USDA Growing Zone: 10-11 (grown as an annual in most zones)
Average Mature Size: 12-24 inches tall, 12-18 inches wide
Growth Rate: Fast
Type: Annual
Key Benefits: Pest Repeller, Attract Pollinators, Edible
Botanical Name: Ocimum basilicum

19. Lemongrass

Lemongrass is a great companion for apple trees, repelling pests like mosquitoes and whiteflies with its strong citrus scent.

Its tall, grassy clumps attract beneficial insects and improve soil health. Lemongrass is also easy to grow and adds a refreshing flavor to culinary dishes.

USDA Growing Zone: 9-11
Average Mature Size: 3-5 feet tall, 2-3 feet wide
Growth Rate: Fast
Type: Perennial (grown as an annual in cooler climates)
Key Benefits: Pest Repeller, Attract Beneficial Insects, Improve Soil Health, Edible
Botanical Name: Cymbopogon citratus

20. Artemisia

Repelling pests like moths and aphids, Artemisia is a valuable companion for apple trees.

Its silvery foliage adds visual interest and attracts beneficial insects. Hardy and drought-tolerant, Artemisia also improves soil health, making it a great addition to any orchard.

USDA Growing Zone: 4-9
Average Mature Size: 2-5 feet tall, 2-4 feet wide
Growth Rate: Moderate
Type: Perennial
Key Benefits: Pest Repeller, Attract Beneficial Insects, Improve Soil Health
Botanical Name: Artemisia spp.

21. Hyssop

Hyssop (Hyssopus officinalis) growing in the garden

Attracting pollinators with its vibrant flowers, Hyssop is a great companion for apple trees.

This aromatic herb repels pests like cabbage moths and aphids, enhancing tree health. Easy to grow and maintain, Hyssop also improves soil quality and adds beauty to your garden.

USDA Growing Zone: 3-10
Average Mature Size: 12-24 inches tall, 12-18 inches wide
Growth Rate: Moderate
Type: Perennial
Key Benefits: Attract Pollinators, Pest Repeller, Improve Soil Quality
Botanical Name: Hyssopus officinalis

22. Crimson Clover

Boosting soil fertility, Crimson Clover is a fantastic companion for apple trees.

It attracts pollinators with its vibrant red flowers and suppresses weeds with its dense growth. As a nitrogen fixer, it enriches the soil, promoting healthier apple trees.