Can You Plant Kale, Lemons, and Kiwi Together?

Companion planting is a popular technique among gardeners seeking to optimize space, improve plant health, and increase yields. However, not all plants are compatible companions. This article explores whether kale, lemons, and kiwi can be successfully grown together. You’ll discover their compatibility, benefits, challenges, and best practices for planting these diverse species.

Compatibility Analysis

The short answer is NO; it is generally not advisable to plant kale, lemons, and kiwi together. Each of these plants has distinct growth requirements and environmental preferences that make them incompatible as companions.

Kale is a cool-season vegetable that thrives in cooler temperatures, whereas lemons and kiwis are warm-season plants that require a subtropical to tropical climate. Additionally, kale prefers slightly acidic to neutral soil, while lemons and kiwis thrive in more acidic conditions. These differences in temperature and soil pH needs present significant challenges for companion planting.

Key Factors:

• Growth Requirements: Kale prefers cooler temperatures (60-70°F), while lemons and kiwis need warmer climates (above 70°F).
• Pest Control: Kale may attract pests that do not affect lemons and kiwis, and vice versa.
• Nutrient Needs: While all three plants require rich, well-drained soil, their specific nutrient needs may vary.
• Spacing: Each plant has its own spacing requirements, making it difficult to plant them together without competition for resources.

Growing Requirements Comparison Table

Benefits of Planting Together

While kale, lemons, and kiwi are not ideal companions, planting them with more compatible plants can offer benefits:

• Pest Repellent Properties: Kale can deter some pests when planted with herbs like sage or rosemary.
• Improved Flavor or Growth: Some herbs, like basil, can enhance the growth and flavor of nearby plants.
• Space Efficiency: Utilizing vertical space for kiwis and ground space for kale can maximize garden yield.
• Soil Health Benefits: Rotating kale with nitrogen-fixing plants like beans can enrich soil quality.
• Pollinator Attraction: Lemons and kiwis attract pollinators, which can benefit other nearby crops.

Potential Challenges

• Competition for Resources: Different water and nutrient needs can lead to competition.
• Watering/Feeding Needs: Kale and kiwis require consistent watering, while overwatering lemons can cause root rot.
• Disease Susceptibility: Different plants may host diseases that can affect others.
• Harvesting Considerations: Different harvest times can complicate garden management.

Practical Solutions:

• Separate Planting Areas: Consider planting each species in its own designated area to meet its specific needs.
• Use of Containers: Grow lemons or kiwis in containers to control soil conditions and water needs.
• Companion Planting with Others: Pair each plant with more compatible companions.

Planting Tips & Best Practices

• Optimal Spacing: Ensure adequate spacing to reduce competition (see table above).
• When to Plant: Plant kale in early spring or fall, while lemons and kiwis should be planted in late spring.
• Container vs. Garden Bed: Use containers for lemons and kiwis if climate conditions are not ideal.
• Soil Preparation: Amend soil with compost and test pH to suit each plant’s needs.
• Additional Companion Plants: Consider pairing kale with onions or garlic, lemons with marigolds, and kiwis with nasturtiums.

FAQ Section

1. Can you plant kale and lemons in the same pot?

   • No, they have different soil and water needs.

2. How far apart should kale and kiwi be planted?

   • Keep at least 10-15 feet apart to accommodate kiwi vines.

3. Do kale and lemons need the same amount of water?

   • No, kale needs moderate watering, while lemons require deep watering.

4. What should not be planted with these plants?

   • Avoid planting kale with strawberries, lemons with potatoes, and kiwis with root vegetables.

5. Will kale affect the taste of lemons?

   • No, but they should not be planted together due to differing requirements.

6. When is the best time to plant these plants together?

   • They should not be planted together due to incompatible growing conditions.

By understanding the specific needs and challenges of kale, lemons, and kiwis, gardeners can make informed decisions about their planting strategies. While these plants may not thrive together, they can be successfully grown with other compatible companions to create a diverse and productive garden.