Edible gardening can be such a fulfilling activity with plenty of different benefits. Not only are you stretching your legs and cultivating such delicious and fresh pickings, but you also get to consume what you grow with family and friends.
Plus, there’s no need for a big yard or a large budget to have your own personal edible garden. All you need is a bit of guidance, some space for the garden, and some time to take care of and enjoy your garden space.
Here are some suggestions to consider:
1) Perennials
Perennials are plants that stay alive and come back the following spring. Often time they will grow and produce for decades. They do not need to be replaced annually like tomatoes and cucumbers do. These include grapes, raspberry and blueberry bushes. Sorrel is a little known green that also does well in many areas, asparagus and strawberries are also some options to consider.
Fruit trees are also nice such as apple trees, pear and peach trees to name a few. Look for varieties that have been adapted for your area and ask about the chill hours of each fruit tree.
Chill hours are for most trees and bushes the amount of time they spend between 32 and 45 degrees Fahrenheit. When buying fruit trees make sure the chill hours a specific variety requires match up with the cold temps in your area. A knowledgeable Nursery will be able to guide you and help you with your fruit tree selections. Rhubarb and strawberries are some other options to think about.
2) Garden Vegetables
Salad greens, leafy greens like spinach, tatsoi, chinese cabbage and other greens are so satisfying to grow. Radishes are also easy and great for the early spring and cooler temps. Vegetables can be so fun to grow as we move into the warmer season. Tomatoes, okra, peppers, kale and so much more. You do have to plan the beds out but with a little guidance you will have a thriving garden. We provide garden coaching onsite and would love to help you. The first step is to book a consultation on our website.
3) Edible Flowers
Edible flowers can be a surefire way to make your garden attractive to you and to pollinators. Not only are they beautiful, but they are also culinary creations in their own right. They are quite delicious and provide you with some some unique nutrients and are eyecatching in a salad or frozen into ice cubes.
Growing edible flowers is quite easy, but some may have their own specifications of what they need, so do research beforehand. Some edible flowers that can be grown in your garden include calendula, pansies, borage, zucchini blossoms and nasturiums.
4) Culinary Herbs
Herbs are a great addition to edible gardens. In fact, it would be a great idea to have an herb garden that’s just by your back door or slider. This makes it easy to step out, grab a few stems and incorporate into your salad or use as a garnish. Plus, herbs are great for seasoning your dishes and making them so much more delicious.
Some lovely-smelling and beautiful herbs that can grow very well in your food garden include dill, sage, oregano, thyme, and basil. You may also want to consider adding mint in case you want a bit of tea to go with your meals when evening rolls in. But remember mint and lemon verbena should only be planted in pots or they will take over.
Conclusion
There is no doubt that growing your own edible garden can be a fun and satisfying experience. You can have a productive food garden that can help you eat more fresh and healthy food. Remember to focus on crops that you and your family like to eat and prioritize growing those.
Need a bit of garden coaching? Culinary Gardens mentors gardeners while designing and installing beautiful gardens to help them grow their own plants and food. Get in touch with us today!