Edible landscaping is the perfect fusion of beauty and functionality. Not only do you get a stunning garden, but you also enjoy fresh produce from your own yard. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned gardener, these edible landscaping plants will elevate your garden’s appearance while filling your kitchen with organic produce.
1. Strawberries
Strawberries are a classic choice for edible landscaping. Their vibrant red fruit contrasts beautifully against their lush green leaves, making them a fantastic ground cover or border plant. Plus, who wouldn’t love to pick a fresh, juicy strawberry on a warm summer day?
2. Swiss Chard
Not only does Swiss chard offer an array of bright colors—think pink, yellow, and orange stems—but it’s also a nutritious green to add to your diet. It’s easy to grow and thrives as a border plant, adding both structure and visual appeal to your garden.
3. Blueberries
Blueberry bushes are a triple-threat in landscape design: they offer beautiful white flowers in spring, juicy berries in summer, and gorgeous red foliage in fall. Blueberries grow best in acidic soil and make an ideal hedge for small yards.
4. Mint
Mint is a fragrant, fast-spreading herb that works well as a ground cover or in decorative pots. It not only adds a cooling flavor to your beverages but also repels pests from your garden.
5. Carrots
Growing carrots in containers or raised beds is a wonderful way to incorporate them into your landscaping. Their feathery, green tops add a soft, textural element, and the hidden treasure of vibrant orange, purple, or yellow roots is a bonus.
6. Peas
Peas are perfect for adding vertical interest to your edible landscape. They grow on trellises or fences, with lovely green pods hanging down, and their delicate flowers bring a touch of whimsy to your yard.
7. Blackberries
Blackberry bushes are perfect for fences or trellises. They add a wild and rustic feel to your garden, and the plump, dark berries are delicious in jams, pies, or eaten fresh right off the plant.
8. Artichokes
Artichokes are not just delicious but also visually stunning. Their large, spiky leaves and purple blooms make them a centerpiece in any garden. Plus, they are perennials, so they’ll come back year after year.
9. Lettuce
Lettuce is an easy-to-grow, fast-maturing crop that comes in a variety of shapes and colors. Use it to fill in gaps in your garden beds, and enjoy fresh salads all season long.
10. Asparagus
Asparagus is a long-term investment, as it takes a few years to mature. But once it does, it will reward you for decades. The tall, fern-like foliage can act as a soft screen in your landscape, adding height and elegance.
11. Fennel
With its feathery foliage and delicate yellow flowers, fennel brings both culinary and visual delight to any landscape. Its bulbs can be used in cooking, while its flowers attract beneficial insects to your garden.
12. Nasturtium
Nasturtium flowers add vibrant pops of orange, red, and yellow to your garden. Both the leaves and flowers are edible, with a peppery taste that’s excellent in salads or as a garnish.
13. Kale
Kale’s textured leaves and rich green or purple hues make it a striking addition to any garden. It’s also incredibly resilient, growing well in both hot and cold weather, so you’ll enjoy its leaves year-round.
14. Radishes
Radishes are one of the fastest-growing crops, making them perfect for beginner gardeners. Their bright red bulbs peek out from the soil, while the leafy tops add a soft, lush look to your landscape.
15. Ground Cherries
Ground cherries are a lesser-known, low-growing plant that produces sweet, husked fruits resembling cherry tomatoes. They add an unexpected yet delightful element to your garden.
16. Rhubarb
Rhubarb’s large, bold leaves make it a standout in any garden bed, while its tart stalks are a culinary favorite for pies and jams. It thrives as a border plant, offering both beauty and bounty.
17. Basil
Basil is a fragrant herb that’s indispensable in the kitchen. Its bright green leaves make a great filler plant in garden beds or containers. Harvest it regularly to encourage bushier growth.
18. Lemon Balm
Lemon balm is a versatile herb that can be used in teas, salads, or desserts. Its fresh, citrusy scent and delicate leaves bring a calming element to your garden.
19. Sunchokes (Jerusalem Artichokes)
Sunchokes are a type of sunflower that produces tubers with a sweet, nutty flavor. These towering plants add vertical interest to your garden, while their underground bounty is a versatile addition to any meal.
20. Lovage
With tall stalks and a flavor reminiscent of celery, lovage is a great perennial herb to add height and drama to your garden. Its leaves, seeds, and stems are all edible, and it makes a wonderful addition to soups and stews.
FAQs:
1. What is edible landscaping?
Edible landscaping is the practice of incorporating food-producing plants into your landscape design. These plants not only beautify your space but also provide fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs for your kitchen.
2. What are some beginner-friendly edible plants?
For beginners, easy-to-grow plants like lettuce, radishes, peas, and strawberries are perfect choices. They grow quickly and require minimal maintenance, making them ideal for new gardeners.
3. Can I grow edible plants in small spaces?
Absolutely! Many edible plants can be grown in pots, containers, or raised beds, making them ideal for small gardens or even balconies. Mint, strawberries, and lettuce are all great options for container gardening.
4. What’s the best way to start an edible landscape?
Start small by incorporating easy-to-grow plants into your existing garden design. Focus on plants that serve dual purposes—like basil or nasturtium—which add beauty and provide edible parts for your kitchen.
5. What are the benefits of edible landscaping?
Edible landscaping not only enhances the visual appeal of your garden but also provides fresh, organic produce right at your doorstep. It reduces grocery costs, promotes sustainability, and adds biodiversity to your yard.
By introducing these top 20 edible landscaping plants, you can transform your yard into a vibrant, functional, and productive space. Whether you’re looking to grow delicious fruits or add beauty with colorful herbs and vegetables, these plants offer the perfect balance of form and function.
