Abundant Nature - An Enchanted Food Forest

Plans for the 2014 Yard, Garden & Patio Show, presented by Dennis' 7 Dees Landscaping & Garden Centers, are gearing up. For the past three years, the Urban Edible Garden feature has been one of the most popular aspects of the show. I predict this year will be just as popular. Four members of the Association of Northwest Landscape Designers are creating more magic for you this year.

Annie Bamberger, Kathryn Leech, Lori Price and Amy Whitworth designed a garden they call Abundant Nature – An Enchanted Food Forest. All have design practices emphasizing sustainable gardening so you’re sure to find ways to beautifully incorporate food, nature and ornamental elements. Here’s how they describe the garden’s design:

"We feed the earth and it feeds us. We clear the land and build structures. Time passes. Change and decay occur…and nature returns. Creative reuse of old materials completes the cycle, saving energy and reducing waste. Abundant Nature provides food and forage for humans and wildlife in a natural system that is easy care and self-supporting. It reflects the canopy layers found in the forest, and weaves urban objects into a magical setting. Welcome the fairies and nature spirits that celebrate their partnership with people sharing mutual respect. The impermanence of our activities results in an imperfect beauty. That is nature!"

Here are some photos of elements you'll experience in the Abundant Nature garden.

I can't wait to see it! I hope you'll join me.