The Benefits Of An Edible Landscape And How To Plant One
The goal of an edible landscape is to create a functional and aesthetically pleasing outdoor space that provides food and other resources for the homeowner and local wildlife. Edible landscapes can be created in a variety of sizes and styles and can be incorporated into a variety of outdoor spaces, including backyard gardens, front yards, and even rooftops. The following are six reasons to cultivate an edible landscape:
- Growing your own food can save you money on your grocery bills.
- To have fresher and more flavorful produce: Homegrown fruits and vegetables are often fresher and more flavorful than those that are purchased from a store.
- When you grow your own food, you can control how it is grown and what goes into it, which can be especially important for those who are concerned about the use of pesticides or other chemicals.
- An edible landscape can help you to be more self-sufficient and reduce your reliance on the grocery store.
- An edible landscape can provide a habitat for a variety of wildlife, including birds, butterflies, and bees.
- An edible landscape can be a beautiful and visually appealing outdoor space that combines the aesthetics of a traditional landscape with the practicality of a vegetable garden.
Choose a Mix of Edible and Ornamental Plants
Choose a mix of plants that will produce food and provide visual interest. Some examples of edible plants that can also be used ornamentally include fruit trees, berry bushes, herbs, and vegetables with colorful foliage or flowers.
Consider the Layout of the Garden
Plan the layout of your edible landscape to create a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing design. Use a variety of heights, textures, and colors to add visual interest.
Use Edible Plants in Ornamental Ways
Incorporate edible plants into your landscape in ways that are traditionally associated with ornamental plants, such as using fruit trees as focal points or herbs as border plants.
Add Decorative Elements
Incorporate decorative elements such as trellises, garden art, and pathways to add visual interest to your edible landscape.
Plan for Seasonal Interest
Choose plants that will provide a variety of colors, textures, and blooms throughout the year to keep your edible landscape looking attractive all year round.
Consider the Needs of the Plants
Make sure to choose plants that are suitable for your climate and soil type, and provide them with the proper care and maintenance they need to thrive.
Contact your local landscaping contractor for more information about installing an edible landscape on your property.