Edible Landscaping

This woman explains why edible landscaping is a wise choice.

There are several reasons to consider edible landscaping. With our current state of economy and environmental issues, landscaping your property with palatable plants seems to be an intelligent solution.

Many people are turning to a greener, and self sustaining way of life. Permaculture is becoming a nationwide phenomenon. However, in a time when most of us live in urban and suburban areas, growing vegetables in a garden is not always a practical option. Many people only have a front yard with a few flower beds. This is where edible landscapes are the most sensible way to join this growing trend.

Whether you choose to use a landscape design that is completely edible, or you wish to integrate a few crop bearing plants into your design, edible landscaping is a great way to save money, control whether or not your family is exposed to harmful pesticides and herbicides, and provide a secure source of food in case of economic crisis. There is also enjoyment in eating a variety fresh grown, and delicious fruits, vegetables, nuts, grains, legumes, flowers, tubers, roots and herbs.

Adding a medium to large nut tree, such as walnut or almond to the edible landscape is a great way to add shade to your yard while providing you with a source of protein and omega 3s. Semi dwarf, or full sized fruit trees and shrubs, provide beautiful blossoms and fragrance before bearing fruits rich in essential vitamins.

Fruit or vegetable bearing vines, and ground covers offer a splash of color to an otherwise boring lawn or fence. Edible, and medicinal flowers, or herbs are deligtful and colorful spring plants that provide an array of health benefits, and will add stunning color to your edible landscape. You can use these flowers as beautiful accents of color, nutrients and flavor in salads or other dishes, or they can be used as a delightful edible garnish.

Even a small patio or deck can be a miniature “Garden of Eden” with a few large planting pots, hanging baskets and window boxes. A food producing garden needs more love and attention than a purely aesthetic landscape design. You will need to do some research on which plants are suitable for your planting zone, and how to maintain your crop. However, the benefits will be well worth spending the extra time and effort.

There are many helpful resources online. You can find your planting zone at the URL below:

In the video below The Botanus Garden Club ladies explain what hardiness zones are used for

Edible Flowers

Chrysanthemums

These beautiful edible flowers are used in many asian dishes as greens or flavor enhancers in soups. They are also used in many asian cultures to make delicious teas.

Daisies

The daisy is another beautiful edible flower that is used both raw and cooked in salads, soups, sandwhiches, and as a vitamin supplement

Violets

This versatile edible flower can be eaten raw, cooked or candied. It's leaves and stems are sometimes used in salads, or cooked as a bland but healthy side dish of greens, because it is rich in antioxidants and vitamins A and C. The are also used as edible decorations on cakes and pastries, or their petals are candied and eaten alone.

Pansies

The pansy is another beautiful edible flower similar to the violet, which is also used to decorate cakes, pastries, and add a colorful spalsh to salads. They can also be used as a beautiful and edible garnish.