Best companion plants for nitrogen-fixing in a food forest?

Nitrogen-Fixing Companions for Fruit Trees

Companion planting with nitrogen-fixing legumes can significantly benefit fruit trees in a food forest. For example, beans and peas can be trained up fruit tree trunks or branches, using trellises or other supports. Plant these companions within 1-2 feet of the fruit tree’s drip line to create a symbiotic relationship. This approach allows the nitrogen-fixing legumes to thrive while providing the fruit tree with essential nutrients.

Companion Planting for Root Vegetables

For a diverse food forest ecosystem, plant nitrogen-fixing companions like clover among root vegetables like carrots, beets, and turnips. Clover’s deep taproot brings up nutrients from the subsoil, making them available to the root vegetables. Plant clover at a density of 1-2 square feet per square foot of root vegetable bed, and maintain a thin layer of mulch to suppress weeds and retain moisture. This combination promotes healthy soil structure and fertility.

Companion Planting for Leafy Greens

Leafy greens like lettuce, spinach, and kale benefit from the nitrogen-fixing abilities of legumes like beans and peas. These legumes can be planted as a living mulch around the perimeter of a leafy green bed, or as a component of a companion planting guild. Plant legumes at a density of 4-6 per square foot, and allow them to grow to 1-2 feet tall before pruning them back to promote leafy green growth. This approach creates a nutrient-rich environment for leafy greens to thrive.