Guidelines for a food forest

     A food forest provides its own fertilization, weed suppression, pest control and habitat for more than humans. Each organism is tied to many others. Connectedness is key in a healthy ecosystem. Multifunctional is necessary.

 Guidelines:

Gardens are dynamic systems, ever growing and changing.

Self-renewal is key to self-maintaining.

Perennials start the process. They renew themselves plus recycle and capture     nutrients.

The more diverse the system is, the healthier the foundation and less competition for resources.

Basic need of a guild: (groups of species that create networks of mutual support)

    A central element (fruit tree)

    Nitrogen fixers

    Insect and bird attracting plants

    Mulch plants

    Nutrient accumulators

    Pest repellents

    Habitat nooks

Plants acting in mutual support can withstand extremes and onslaughts better than an isolated species.

   

To Start:

             Find out the mature size & shape of the trees you want (width x height)

      Never plant canopy trees closer than their maximum potential width allows

      A gap between trees (at maximum width) of ¼-½ of the tree canopy width, 

      will allow significant light through to the lower layer.  

      Just 1-2 hours sun per day in summer can double the energy they get

      In general, put largest canopy trees at north end/side of site, 

      smallest ones at south end/side

      Incorporate any aesthetic objectives.

      Stacking of plants: canopy trees, small trees and large shrubs, shrubs, herbaceous     perennials, ground covers, climbers and vines, roots zone

      The tables below (in other posts) will give you the idea of what is possible in Salida, Colorado, elevation 7,000 ft.