Food scaping is a practice that integrates edible plants, such as fruits, vegetables, and herbs, into the design of a garden or outdoor space. It involves creating functional and aesthetic spaces that produce food and can be applied to residential and commercial properties.

Benefits of food scaping include:

  1. Improved access to fresh and healthy food: Food scaping encourages the production and consumption of fresh, local, and organic food, which can improve health and well-being.

  2. Environmental sustainability: Food scaping promotes organic and sustainable growing methods, reducing environmental impact and promoting biodiversity.

  3. Community building: Food scaping can create opportunities for community building and sharing of resources, such as through community gardens or shared harvests.

  4. Aesthetic appeal: Food scaping can enhance the aesthetic appeal of outdoor spaces, creating beautiful and functional landscapes that produce food.

  5. Economic benefits: Food scaping can provide economic benefits through reduced grocery bills, the potential for income from selling excess produce, and increased property values.

Disadvantages of food scaping include:

  1. Space requirements: Food scaping may require a larger outdoor space than traditional landscaping practices, which may not be feasible for some properties.

  2. Maintenance requirements: Food scaping can require more maintenance than traditional landscaping practices, including regular watering, fertilising, and pest management.

  3. Climate limitations: Some edible plants may not thrive in certain climates or growing conditions, limiting the variety of food produced.

A table of vegetables suitable for food scaping and their planting season in Australia:

VegetablePlanting Season
BeetrootLate summer to fall
BroccoliLate summer to fall
CabbageLate summer to fall
CarrotLate summer to fall
CucumberLate summer to fall
EggplantLate summer to fall
KaleLate summer to fall
LettuceLate summer to fall
PeasLate summer to fall
PumpkinLate summer to fall
RadishLate summer to fall
SpinachLate summer to fall
SquashLate summer to fall
Sweet PotatoLate summer to fall
TomatoLate summer to fall
ZucchiniLate summer to fall

Note: Planting seasons may vary depending on location and climate. It is important to consult local gardening resources for specific planting recommendations.

Food Scaping Grow food on roofs and balcony