Dayton "Dirt" Green Blog - April 2011

The concept of an edible landscape is not new as it has been an American tradition since Colonial times.

As time passed on from the Colonial era, more emphasis was placed on the ornamental value of plants in the landscape other than their value as a potential food source.

Today, the concept of an edible landscape is making a comeback as food prices rise and public concerns about food quality and safety continue to grow.

In suburban areas of homes with large lots, there is ample land for gardening and the planting of edible landscapes. However, in urban areas with small lots, edible landscapes are still possible with the more limited space of a city lot.

One advantage of an edible landscape is that members of the tree, shrub and herbaceous perennial groups, which are food sources, are permanent members of the landscape so that they do not have to be planted year after year such as the case with the popular heat-loving vegetables such as tomatoes and peppers.

Another advantage of many of the edibles is that they have excellent ornamental qualities as well.

One example is Cornus mas, or the Cornelian Cherry Dogwood, with its glorious golden yellow flowers of early spring followed by bright red fruits later in summer that can be used to make jams and jellies.

Another tree of merit is Amelanchier laevis, or Allegheny Serviceberry, that blooms prolifically with white blossoms in late April here in northern Ohio followed by blue-black berries in June that are a favorite of birds. The berries of this North American native can be used in pies, as the inhabitants of the Appalachian Mountains have done for years.

Vaccinium species, or blueberries, are fascinating North American plants that grow over a wide geographic range.

The two northern species are the highbush type, Vaccinium corybosum, and the low bush type, Vaccinium angustifolia.

In fact, crosses between the two above species have resulted in the creation of the half high types that grow between 1½ and 3 feet and are ideal for use in the landscape.

The bright white flowers of spring, handsome summer foliage and gorgeous colors of fall make a feast for the eyes.

The most important reason to plant blueberries though are for the delicious, healthful berries that are high in antioxidants and anthocyanins. The uses for the berries are quite numerous which include jams, jellies, pies, cobblers, fresh eating, baking and juice.

Other edible landscape plants include rhubarb, elderberries, currants, quince and flowering crabapples.

An edible landscape provides food for wildlife, beautifies the environment and provides wholesome, nutritious berries and fruits for its owner.

What a supplement for the family’s diet in addition to the traditional vegetable garden!

Happy Planting,
Tom