[Ruby Red]

I have an area of garden that is a 10 foot triangle of sorts. It is only soil and there is a 3 year old victoria plum tree planted in the middle. As spare planting room is at a premium in my garden, I was wondering if I could use the space to plant veggies. Do I have to leave an area bare round the tree? Would it put the tree at risk at all. I really could do with using it. Thanks

[compostqueen]

I thought it only needed a bare area round the trunk for 3 years and then it would be possible to let the grass grow round it, or plants in your case. I suppose if you can underplant it with flowers then you could do veg. Maybe not heavy feeders though as the tree will need plenty of nutrients for fruiting

Salads and herbs aren't greedy  

[gobs]

Will depend on rootstock, also, what is the area 10x 10 feet or do you mean that overall?

[Earl Grey]

I would suggest having a go at some of the leafier vegetables such as lettuce, cabbage, kale etc as they don't mind a bit of shade that you would get close to a tree. Beetroot and some herbs would do well.

Tree roots do take up quite a bit of moisture so keep an eye on the watering. If you like it, a patch of Rhubarb in one corner may do well.

If you are at all worried about planting in the soil near the tree you could always use the area for grow bags/ tubs for  salad crops.

[Ruby Red]

Thanks for your replies