Fruit Trees, Nuts, and Berries

Even though fruit trees, berries, and nuts are inviting to wildlife, there’s generally enough to go around on these edible landscaping plants. And you can usually deter many animals just by using a little shield, like netting.

But the real benefit of using them as edible landscaping plants is that they require minimal care and look fantastic for many seasons to come. All little pruning and feeding each year will go a long way.

The visual impact of a blueberry bush, for example, that covers itself with white flowers in the springtime, purple berries in the summer, and bright red leaves in the fall will be well worth it!

Spinach

This mild-flavored green is a favorite among home gardeners… and Popeye, of course! Spinach is chock-full of many nutrients. And growing some in your garden can be a great way to include more iron and antioxidants into your daily diet.

Fresh spinach leaves sold loose in a bin or in bags at the supermarket tend to be season items. So why not grow your own? If you prefer baby spinach, harvest it when the leaves are about 2 to 3 inches long.

Otherwise, select the outer leaves of this delicious plant when they’re over 3 to 4 inches long, and the leaves will be tender, with the stems slightly crunchy.