Home Fruit Trees Planting Trees Near Black Walnut Trees: A Guide to Juglone Tolerance

Planting Trees Near Black Walnut Trees: A Guide to Juglone Tolerance

by Gregory
3 minutes read

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.

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