Question 1

How much space do I need for a food forest?

Accepted Answer

You can start small; we designed a food forest on 700 square feet in Orlando that is loaded with over 40 food and medicine producers. You can yield more in the same square footage as an annual garden by utilizing food forest layers.

Question 2

How much will a food forest installation cost?

Accepted Answer

Costs are estimates based on the entire design space. We often phase out installations based on your budget to ensure the successful establishment of thriving edible gardens.

Question 3

How much does it cost to plant a fruit tree?

Accepted Answer

Costs depend on tree size (including planting): Small (1-5 gallon) is $130–$330; Medium (6-15 gallon) is $330–$700; Large (15-25 gallon) is $700–$1,800.

Question 4

How much does it cost to plant berry bushes?

Accepted Answer

Costs depend on bush size (including planting): Small (1-2 gallon) is $60–$130; Medium (3-5 gallon) is $130–$250.

Question 5

What is the difference between a traditional garden and a food forest?

Accepted Answer

A traditional garden is usually composed of annuals that need replanting every year, while a food forest is a multi-layered, perennial system that mimics nature. Once established, it is more resilient and produces food across seven layers.

Question 6

How does the 'Foodification' process work?

Accepted Answer

The Foodification process involves assessing your site's unique conditions, designing a layout that utilizes natural principles, and installing a custom, scalable edible landscape that works with your specific climate.

Question 7

Can I have a food forest in a small backyard?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We specialize in designing for any scale. By utilizing vertical space and layered planting, we can maximize food production even in modest, suburban backyard footprints.

Question 8

Do I need to use pesticides or fertilizers in a food forest?

Accepted Answer

Our goal is to work with nature. By choosing diverse, mutually beneficial plant species and building healthy soil, we aim to eliminate the need for harmful synthetic chemicals and fertilizers.

Question 9

How do I get started with a design?

Accepted Answer

The first step is to schedule a consultation. We will discuss your vision, assess your space, and determine the best approach to creating your custom Food Forest Design Blueprint.

Question 10

When is the best time to plant a food forest in Minnesota?

Accepted Answer

In Minnesota, the best time to plant is early spring, as soon as the soil can be worked, or in the fall before the ground freezes, allowing roots to establish before the heat of summer.

J. Russell Smith: Pioneer of Perennial Agriculture