
In his blog on landscaping, Fernando Pozuelo encourages a transformative connection with nature through the creation of edible gardens. He emphasizes that this practice, rooted in human tradition, not only provides aesthetic compositions but also connects individuals with the joy of horticultural care.
Pozuelo outlines key considerations for establishing an edible garden:
Direct Sunlight for Six to Eight Hours:
– Adequate sunlight is crucial for the proper growth and development of edible plants.
– The potential for flowering and fruiting in sun-loving vegetables is directly proportional to their exposure to sunlight.
– For areas with insufficient sunlight, consider planting species adapted to shaded conditions, such as spearmint, currants, or blueberries.
Soil Type:
– Soil quality is fundamental to the success of an edible garden.
– Pozuelo recommends using well-draining, loose, aerated, and weed-free soil rich in organic matter.
– If the soil lacks these qualities, manual drainage with the addition of silica sand may be necessary.
Crop Rotation:
– Understand the seasonal needs of different crops and plant accordingly.
– For spring, consider tomatoes, cucumbers, eggplants, peppers, peas, or beans.
– Cold-season crops like cabbage, cauliflower, radishes, Swiss chard, or spinach are suitable for autumn and winter.
– Explore seasonal crop cycles to create synergies between different plant species.
Maintenance of the Edible Garden:
– Keep the garden free of weeds, secure climbing plants, and harvest regularly to prevent fruits from falling to the ground.
– Implement a drip irrigation system to access each plant’s root zone with minimal water consumption.
– Maintain a vigilant control of pests and prevent diseases with eco-friendly treatments using natural products like pyrethrin, rotenone, or nicotine for a healthy garden.
Embark on the journey of creating and maintaining your edible garden, where the beauty of landscaping converges with the rewarding activity of cultivating your own nourishment.