Edible gardening is something that has been enjoyed by people all over the world for years. The idea of growing your food is not only fiscally responsible, but it also maintains a connection to the earth and the natural environment that we live in.
Humans have been practicing organic and sustainable gardening for thousands of years, and we should continue to do just that. In comes edible gardens.
Edible gardens offer great design ideas that can be incorporated into any landscape. They are a unique alternative for creating a new focal point in the yard or garden in attracting local wildlife for observation.
Many edible plant parts can be used to decorate your garden with color and scent, which will attract beneficial insects. With that, here are some design ideas:
1. Raised Beds
Raised beds are popular because of the many benefits they bring. When it comes to edible gardening, raised beds are low-maintenance, offering sufficient space for vegetables and herbs. Furthermore, a raised bed will give you more control over the soil conditions that will enable you to quickly and easily harvest your crops.
You can design a raised bed in almost any way you can think of; you can make it simple or elaborate, depending on your needs and the aesthetic you want to achieve.
2. Obelisks
Elevate your vegetable patch with obelisks, where you can also grow climbing crops. This edible garden design is perfect if you want to add more visual height and interest to your garden. You can also add vertical structures here to let you grow more food and draw the eye.
3. Tunnels
Another edible garden design idea is adding tunnels where you can grow some of your vertical crops. You can use sheets of concrete reinforced mesh panels that are attached to your raised beds. Secure the tops of the tunnels with plastic zip ties and have two wooden spreaders on there to maintain the shape’s structure as your plants grow.
Tunnels can serve as a focal point in your edible garden. You can even consider adding a pole bean tunnel to enhance production, and it can even help make your garden look even more beautiful.
Similar to obelisks, tunnels can also add vertical height to your edible garden.
What to Consider When Designing an Edible Garden
Now you know some edible garden ideas, here are things you need to consider:
- Size: If you’re new to this, take it easy and start small. Start with only a few crops and a small raised bed. This is easier to maintain and will prevent you from feeling overwhelmed. After all, you can always add more beds and expand your edible garden as you see fit.
- Location: It’s crucial you pick the right spot for your edible garden. You need to keep in mind that most of the foods you will grow in your garden will need a lot of light exposure, which is why your garden needs to be situated at the right spot.
- Soil: Pay attention to the soil you use. Use a soil test kit to reveal the nutrients you need to add to the soil. Additionally, this will help you determine the soil’s pH level.
Conclusion
Edible garden design has become popular in recent years as more people want organic, sustainable food produced in their backyards. Raised beds, obelisks, and tunnels—use these design ideas to start your own!
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