Gardening success hinges on plant placement, according to expert Lucy Chamberlain. Her new book, "RHS Grow Food Anywhere," breaks down gardens into seven zones, each optimized for specific edible plant types. This approach, Chamberlain argues, naturally fosters healthier growth and higher yields.
Chamberlain, a prolific gardener who cultivates over 150 varieties of fruits, vegetables, and herbs, emphasizes that edible plants, unlike ornamental ones, have varying light and moisture requirements. "Gardeners often overlook this," she explains, "focusing instead on the specific needs of ornamental plants."
Zone 1, sunny and sheltered, is ideal for strawberries, nectarines, apricots, and other sun-loving crops. Adequate shelter is critical for pollination. Zone 2, sunny, open, and dry, suits figs, asparagus, and grapes, resilient plants that thrive in drier conditions. Chamberlain highlights that figs, while drought-tolerant, benefit from early watering to establish roots.
Moving to Zone 3, a sunny and moist location is perfect for butternut squash, pumpkins, and similar plants. Spacing is key to optimal growth. Zone 4, open and cold, is a good spot for broad beans, carrots, and parsnips, offering potential for early-autumn or spring sowing depending on the variety.
Partial shade is preferred in Zone 5 for raspberries and other crops, while the shade and wet conditions of Zone 6 support celeriac, blackcurrants, and rhubarb. Zone 7, shady and dry, is suitable for gooseberries, currants, and alpine strawberries. Key to success, Chamberlain stresses, is understanding the unique needs of each plant.
Chamberlain's book, "RHS Grow Food Anywhere," provides a comprehensive guide to selecting and positioning edible plants based on their specific requirements. The book is now available for purchase.
