Kitchen Garden Design: Refined to Rewild

Commonly referred to as vegetable gardens, yet frequently inclusive of herbs, fruits, and edible flowers, kitchen gardens are lifestyle-reflective. In this class, we’ll explore edible gardens at CMBG, including the gardens where edibles are planted along perennial borders. While we examine the different styles, from the traditionally-designed potager to more naturalistic designs known as “rewilding,” students will learn about style considerations like plant companions, pollinators, management, and aesthetic choices. Understanding the benefits and considerations of the different design concepts will help students determine both what they want out of their spaces and how to achieve sustainable and bountiful results. The field-study class will include (brief) design time so students can practice integrating ideas into their own spaces.

Ellen Ecker Ogden is the author of six books on kitchen garden design and presents at botanical gardens, garden clubs, and national symposiums. She is a freelance writer and authors a blog at ellenogden.com. Ellen’s career as a gardener, designer, and garden writer includes features in national publications such as Martha Stewart Living, Horticulture Magazine, Better Homes and Gardens, and PBS’s Victory Garden. A Vermont resident, Ellen knows first-hand the challenges and benefits of growing in New England.