Fruit trees generally need different growing conditions than rhododendrons, so we use them in companion beds rather than as companion plants. We have two orchards (one for rare old apples, and one for trees especially suited to western Washington) surrounded by rhododendron beds and connected to the rest of the garden by paths and lawns. Nearby are the herb and vegetable gardens. Though the plantings are different, the orchards have the same flowing shape as the rest of the garden.
Lady apples, also called Pommes d'Api, date back to at least Mideaval times in France, and were possibly developed much earlier by the Romans. The one to two inch fruit have been used for centuries as Christmas decorations, but also add bright color to the garden throughout the fall. The small stature and limited root growth of Lady Apple trees make them ideal companions for rhododendrons.
Other old apples in the Anderson Garden include Cox's Orange, Roxbury Russet, Fameuse, and Blenheim, and Sheepnose.
© 2001 by John and Doreen Anderson