Oak, walnut, poplar and linden: why are these trees on the “black list” of summer residents

27.01.2024 11:25

Even novice gardeners and vegetable growers know well that tree leaves can serve as a first-class fertilizer.

In order for the foliage to be beneficial, it should be mixed with other organic matter or simply with fertile soil, suggests Anastasia Kovrizhnykh, an expert at the online publication BelNovosti, an agronomist and landscape designer.

However, not every tree's leaves are suitable for these purposes - with some of them, the summer resident needs to be extremely careful.

For example, it is not recommended to use walnut or oak leaves in their pure form, as they contain substances that can inhibit plant growth.

If we talk about walnut leaves, they contain juglone, which is toxic to plants.

Trees
Photo: © Belnovosti

Juglone is difficult for soil organisms to process, and for some crops (meaning nightshades) it even acts as a herbicide. This is the reason why these leaves should not be used in beds where these plants are planned to be planted.

Walnut leaves should also be used with caution to cover roses and other plants of the Rosaceae family.

However, you should not use poplar leaves in beds with garlic and onions, as this can have a negative impact on these crops.

As for the linden tree, it has been established that pathogens of various diseases of garden and vegetable plants can often be found on its leaves.

Previously, the expert listed 5 popular varieties of hanging tomatoes.

Author: Elena Shimanovskaya Internet resource editor
 
Expert: Anastasia Kovrizhnykh Expert / Belnovosti