From Ornamental to Edible: Transform Your Landscape for Fresh Flavor
Virginia's diverse climate allows a wide variety of plants to thrive, but why not add a delicious twist to your landscaping? Edible gardens are not only beautiful, but they also provide you with fresh, homegrown produce.
Benefits of Edible Landscaping:
Fresh, Local Food: Enjoy the satisfaction of harvesting your own fruits, vegetables, and herbs.
Reduced Grocery Bills: Supplement your diet with homegrown produce, saving money on groceries.
Enhanced Beauty: Edible plants can be just as aesthetically pleasing as traditional ornamentals.
Eco-Friendly: Reduce your carbon footprint by growing local food and avoiding transportation emissions.
Edible Plants for Virginia's Climate:
Spring: Lettuce, spinach, kale, peas, radishes, and Swiss chard.
Summer: Tomatoes, peppers, eggplant, squash, zucchini, and cucumbers.
Fall: Pumpkins, carrots, beets, potatoes, and collard greens.
Winter: Kale, Swiss chard, Brussels sprouts, and pansies (viola).
Replacing Ornaments with Edibles:
Shrubs: Replace foundation plantings with blueberry bushes, raspberry canes, or fragrant rosemary.
Flowers: Swap out non-edible flowers for colorful violas, pansies, or borage (which attracts pollinators!).
Groundcover: Consider creeping thyme, chives, or strawberries for walkways and borders.
Tips for Success:
Consider Sunlight: Choose plants suited for the amount of sunlight your landscaping receives.
Soil Testing: Test your soil and amend it as needed for optimal plant growth.
Water Wisely: Water regularly, especially during Virginia's hot summers.
Organic Methods: Use organic pest control and fertilization techniques for healthy, safe produce.
At Decked Out Landscapes, we can help you design and install a beautiful, productive edible garden. We'll work with you to create a plan that suits your space, preferences, and Virginia's unique climate.
Contact us today and let's transform your landscape into a feast for all your senses!
