Edible Forest Gardens is a groundbreaking two-volume work that spells
out and explores the key concepts of forest ecology and applies them to
the needs of natural gardeners in temperate climates. Volume I lays out
the vision of the forest garden and explains the basic ecological
principles that make it work. In Volume II, Dave Jacke and Eric
Toensmeier move on to practical considerations: concrete ways to design,
establish, and maintain your own forest garden. Along the way they
present case studies and examples, as well as tables, illustrations, and
a uniquely valuable "plant matrix" that lists hundreds of the best
edible and useful species.
Taken together, the two volumes of Edible Forest Gardens offer an
advanced course in ecological gardening-one that will forever change the
way you look at plants and your environment.
What is an edible forest garden?
An edible forest garden is a perennial polyculture of multipurpose
plants. Most plants regrow every year without replanting: perennials.
Many species grow together: a polyculture. Each plant contributes to the
success of the whole by fulfilling many functions: multipurpose. In
other words, a forest garden is an edible ecosystem, a consciously
designed community of mutually beneficial plants and animals intended
for human food production. Edible forest gardens provide more than just
a variety of foods. The seven F's apply here: food, fuel, fiber, fodder,
fertilizer, and "farmaceuticals," as well as fun. A beautiful, lush
environment can be a conscious focus of your garden design, or a side
benefit you enjoy
