Simply put, edible landscaping replaces, or combines ornamental plants with plants that produce food. Edible landscapes combine fruit and nut trees, berry bushes, vegetables, herbs, edible flowers and ornamental plants into aesthetically pleasing designs. These designs can incorporate and garden style and can include anywhere from 1-100% edible species. It increases sustainability at all levels – personal, community and global. The University of Florida has outlined some of its additional benefits:
- Improved Taste and Nutrition of Food: Nutrient content and flavor in most plants is highest immediately after harvest. The edible landscape provides fresh foods, which can be eaten in minutes, rather than days or weeks after the harvest. In addition, many exceptional and flavorful varieties not found at food markets are available to growers of edible landscapes
- Increased Food Security: An edible landscape reduces your dependence on foreign food sources which have unknown production systems
- Reduced Food Costs: Certain edibles are highly productive and are more economical to grow at home than to purchase.
- Convenience: Having fruits and vegetables right outside your home may help you add fresher, healthier foods to your diet. It also makes meal preparation easier.
- Fun and Exercise: Growing your own crops can be rewarding and fun; the exercise you get in the process is an added bonus.
- Sustainability: Consuming locally grown produce can be an important part of reducing energy inputs and protecting the environment.
Edible landscaping can create a unique and beautiful look in your garden, while providing nutritious food