Nitrogen Fixers


Nitrogen fixers play an important role in nature as well as in our orchard. These plants partner with nitrogen fixing bacteria to allow these plants to 'fix' their own nitrogen. This provides them with an advantage over other plants that require an outside source for nitrogen. Nitrogen fixing plants also allow other nearby plants to share nitrogen with them – providing integrated fertility without the need to add synthetic fertilizers. Providing a natural source of fertility is an integral part of our orchard system.

Buffalo Berry

buffalo berry thumb

Height: 8-10 ft Spread: 8-10 ft


Foliage color is silver, a native plant with thorny branches, yellowish-white flowers and orange-red fruit that is good for jelly. Can be used as a barrier plant. Zone 2.





1 Gal - $ 25.00
Bulk pricing available


Green Alder

green aldr

Height: 20 ft Spread: 10 ft

 

Versatile nitrogen-fixing shrub that is able to grow in a wide range of conditions. Extremely tough and hardy and can be equally at home in both wet and dry soils as well as a variety of light conditions. One of our favourite nitrogen fixing shrubs.





1 Gal - $25.00


Honey Locust

honey locust

Height: 3-50 ft Spread: 30-40 ft

 

Produces natural rot-resistant wood while producing bee-friendly blossoms and fixing nitrogen into the soil.  Not zone 3 hardy, but functions well in our orchard. Most years it dies back to the ground, releasing stored nitrogen in the process. Returns the next year with larger growth due to increased root mass from previous-season's growth.