Maples, dogwood, mulberries, cherries, black raspberries; companions?

Near some established maples, dogwoods, an eastern red cedar, black raspberries (young), and a mulberry tree, cherry tree, where the land is some mostly shade - some partial sun/shade sun, what will grow well? How about if there is an elderberry near?

Are you looking for more fruit trees/shrubs?

I have a very similar assortment in my yard,  from south to north:

black raspberry
grape vine (fredonia)
fig (Chicago Hardy)
sour cherry (North Star)
Witchhazel (hamamelis virginiana)
more black raspberries
pawpaws (two trees forming a grove)
white mulberry

All these plants seem happy together, so maybe add in any that appeal to you.  

The grape vine actually stretches along the fence almost the whole length of the yard. There is a blue spruce in neighbor's yard which makes dry shade to west of the cherry and witchhazel.  Where the grape vine runs under the spruce, I have no black rot, unlike other parts of the vine. Perhaps your cedar could give similar protection to a grape?

The fig does not ripen, which is due to poor placement on my part and not enough sun.

Wild strawberries also cover the ground in the northern half, of this array. They are unfortunately not at all tasty, but at least a nice ground cover and something for the birds.

The Pawpaws are an excellent idea! Very interesting and intriguing regarding the running grape vine and the protective forces of trees possible, I will consider the Juniper as a companion. Thank you!

Mk Neal wrote:Are you looking for more fruit trees/shrubs?

Certainly interested.

Mk Neal wrote:The grape vine actually stretches along the fence almost the whole length of the yard. There is a blue spruce in neighbor's yard which makes dry shade to west of the cherry and witchhazel.  Where the grape vine runs under the spruce, I have no black rot, unlike other parts of the vine. Perhaps your cedar could give similar protection to a grape?

I wonder how grape vine and black raspberry may get along, if at all.

Mk Neal wrote:Wild strawberries also cover the ground in the northern half, of this array. They are unfortunately not at all tasty, but at least a nice ground cover and something for the birds.

Hmm, fragaris virginia or the like? I am in central virginia, currently, and wonder if I could manage some yummy tasting strawberries. As you say, there are many potential benefits.


I am really keen on the Pawpaw idea and wonder how they would guild with shade-loving plants.