Do you want a garden that looks good enough to eat? There’s a new book to help. In his new book, Extraordinary Ornamental Edibles, Mike Lascelle, a nursery manager in Maple Ridge, British Columbia, lists 100 perennials, trees, shrubs and vines that both look and taste good.
He argues that planting and tending vegetables every year requires more effort than maintaining a backyard full of well-established hardy perennials that are also ebible. From akebia vine, with its scented flowers and tasty purple-skinned seed pods, to shade-loving Japanese zingiber, Lascelle identifies many options for Canadian gardeners that offer aesthetic and edible appeal. Each entry includes information on the plant’s ideal exposure, water needs, pollination requirements, and harvesting and food preparation suggestions.
He also provides details about microclimates, pests, ecological concerns, organic gardening tips, container growing, space-saving espaliers, propagation, grafting, pruning and design — such as selecting edible groundcovers and choosing plants for fall colour. And there are culinary suggestions and recipes for everything from herbal teas to tempura.
Extraordinary Ornamental Edibles by Mike Lascelle ($24.95) is published by Douglas & McIntyre.
Win a copy of the new book
Garden Making readers had a chance to win a copy of Extraordinary Ornamental Edibles by entering a draw in May 2018. There were 393 entries. Congratulations to Linda O. in Sayward, British Columbia, whose entry was randomly selected. Book publisher Douglas & McIntyre is mailing her a copy of the book.
The draw is now closed for entries.
Love this book..so much info…well researched by Mike….hope whoever won the contest will enjoy it
Tulip petals and nasturtium blossoms have adorned my salads, and crystallized violets decorated spring birthday cakes. I would love to learn about the many other things that are both interesting in the garden and can be eaten. This sounds like a fascinating book.
really love and wait for my Garden Making ‘e’
It is terrific and beautiful and informing – thanks.
I love trying new garden ideas
Marylea Burtt
Hi ,
It says enter the draw before May 28 , but in another spot it says contest closes in April?
Did I read this wrong?
Hope to win for my husband who is new to gardening and likes growing things to eat!
Sorry for the confusion. Draw closes May 28.
Since I seem to be inseparable from Gout I might as well live with it. But sure like to know what I can eat an enjoy from my garden. Thank you for a great book. Best regards, Jimmy
My kind of gardening!