The idea of an edible landscape combines the practicality of growing your own food with the beauty and aesthetics of a well-designed garden. Not only does it save you money and promote sustainability, but it also allows you to indulge your inner foodie in a unique way. Here are five DIY ideas for creating an edible landscape that's as appealing to the eye as it is to the palate.
1. Choose the right plants
One of the keys to a successful edible landscape is selecting the right plants. Opt for edible plants that double as ornamental plants. Some great options include:
- Herbs: Not only are many herbs beautiful and aromatic, but they are also culinary staples. Consider basil, rosemary, mint, and chives.
- Fruit-bearing trees and shrubs: Many fruits trees and shrubs, like apples, citrus, and blueberries, offer beauty in every season, from blossoms to fruit to autumn foliage.
- Vegetables: Some vegetables, like rainbow chard and ornamental kale, can add color and interest to your garden.
2. Design your landscape
Just because it's an edible garden doesn't mean it can't be beautiful. Consider color, texture, form, and seasonality when designing your edible landscape. Here are a few design ideas to help you get started:
- Create a kitchen garden with herbs and vegetables you use most often located close to your kitchen door.
- Plant fruit trees as focal points in your garden. They offer structure, shade, and delicious rewards.
- Use edible groundcovers, like thyme or strawberries, to fill in spaces.
3. DIY Garden Projects
Enhance your garden with a few DIY projects that will not only add interest but also make your gardening tasks easier. For instance:
- Build raised beds for better soil control and easier access to plants.
- Create a compost bin for recycling kitchen scraps into nutrient-rich soil.
- Set up a rain barrel for water conservation.
4. Low Maintenance Plants
Choose low-maintenance plants that will thrive with little care. Perennials, especially, are perfect for a low-work edible garden. Consider these plants:
- Berry bushes like blueberries and raspberries.
- Herbs such as mint, sage, and thyme.
- Fruit trees apples or pears.
- Edible flowers like nasturtiums and marigolds.
5. Consideration for Small Spaces
Even if you have a small space, you can still create a lush, productive edible landscape. Here are few tips:
- Use containers: Many vegetables, herbs, and even some fruits can grow well in containers.
- Vertical gardening: Grow climbing plants like beans, peas, and cucumbers on trellises to save ground space.
- Intensive planting: Plant crops close together to maximize yield in a small area.
Creating an edible landscape involves more than just planting food-producing plants. It's about creatively integrating these plants into your landscape to create a space that's both functional and beautiful. With these tips, your edible landscape will not only feed your family but also delight your senses and make your garden the envy of all foodies.
