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Can anything be planted under an orange tree?

10 years ago

I'm working on a corner of a yard that has nothing in it except a large orange tree. The trunk of the tree is about 7' from the fence on one side and about 12' from the fence on the other. I'd like to have some plants under the tree in this corner, but want to be sure I don't create a problem for the orange tree. I'm thinking that orange trees do best with infrequent but deep watering?
If planting under the tree would not cause a problem, these are some of the plants I was considering using:
An Abutilon in the far back corner with another variety of shrub along the fence on both sides (not sure which variety yet), and some perennials to fill in such as Columbine, Heuchera, Liriope, maybe Vinca minor.
Does anyone have any info to share as to why this would not be a good idea? If planting under the tree is OK, what other plants might I consider? It is quite shaded for much of the day. Central Valley, CA USDA zone 9?
Thank you

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Comments (2)

jean001a
10 years ago
In general, citrus roots are rather shallow.

If you must have something growing underneath the canopy, put the other plants in containers.
hoosierquilt USDA 10A Sunset 23 Vista CA
10 years ago
Jean is correct, not wise to plant anything under a citrus tree. It will compete with the tree for water and nutrients. You're better off mulching under your tree to preserve water, keeping the mulch away from the trunk, so the trunk stays dry. Nothing under the tree from trunk to dripline or a bit beyond (edge of canopy). That's where the feeder roots reside - at the drip line and a bit beyond.

Patty S.
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